2. amps-preamps
  3. 1432765211

Tube preamp recommendations

Hi everyone,

As I posted a while back, I have given separates a try after quite a while with integrated amps. I had been using a Simaudio i-1. I found it to be a bit thin/brittle in the highs and perhaps a bit too clinical. So, I bought a used McCormack DNA-125 amp and am currently running it through the pre-out on the Simaudio. The McCormack throws an large, deep soundstage and provided much more bass depth and warmth than the Simaudio. However, the sonic signatures of the Simaudio are still there, obviously.

I tried a Conrad-Johnson Classic 2 preamp. While it was smoother and more coherent than the Simaudio's preamp, it still seemed a bit too thin to my ears. I had to make a decision on it before I had the chance to roll tubes, so it might just have been the stock tube (which was brand new).

So, I'm looking for a simple tube preamp that provides a richer midrange than I have with the Sim preamp. I don't need massive bass slam, or extremely detailed treble. In fact, I am very sensitive to treble grain and sibilance. I only need two inputs, and I don't need phono/dac/record out, etc. I'd like to keep the price under 2k, preferably around $1500. The rest of my system is as follows:

a. Primary source: Marantz TT 15s1 w/Jolida JD9 mk3 phono stage
b. Secondary source: Marantz SA8004 SACD player
c. Speakers: Harbeth P3esr

So, if you have a suggestion, I'd love to hear it. I thank you in advance for your time.

Best, Scott
smrex13

Showing 2 responses by smrex13

smrex13 OP
645 posts
 
Thanks for all the recommendations - there are some models I had never heard of that look interesting.

I think I may have solved the issue with the CJ preamp after some more research. The unit is phase inverting, so apparently I should have switched the speaker outputs. I wasn't aware of this, and I'm sure that the combination of a new unit with a new tube and an incorrect speaker hook up was far from optimal.

So, now I just need to decide whether to try the CJ again or try something else. Sadly, there are no dealers near me, so I don't have the option of listening to gear without purchasing it.

Keep y'all posted,
Scott
smrex13 OP
645 posts
 
Just wanted to say thanks and update you all. I ended up buying a used Joule LA 150. So far, it's an amazing leap in sound quality. Wonderful sound staging and placement of instruments and voices. Seems to be a nice match with the McCormack amp. I'm thinking of upgrading my digital source since CDs and SACDs sound so much better with the new preamp.

Thanks again for all your recommendations,
Scott
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