2. amps-preamps
  3. 1066256070

Need help from tube guys to select a tube preamp

Hi,
I'm seriously considering mating a tube preamp with the McCormack DNA .5. I would like recommendations for a tube preamp, that is remote controlled, and in the $500-$600 range. I have no experience with tubes, but I have heard so many convincing comments that I think I am going to take the plunge with the pre section. I have been told that there is a Sonic Frontier offering that may be a good match. Thanks in advance for any advice.
jb3
elevick
2,636 posts
 
Good luck finding one with remote!
mejames
986 posts
 
VTL 2.5 has remote would be very hard to beat at this price level sonically
meech33
57 posts
 
I third the DARED SL-2000a. I've had it in my sytem for about a week and I have to say that this is single biggest improvement my system has had after a new purchase.

Good luck.
mattybumpkin
590 posts
 
What is the output impedance of the Dared? I see it has around 18db of gain.

Thnx,
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
You got me there Mattybumpkin! I'am not sure but from trying it on several amplifiers it seems standard.I listen at 9'Oclock on the dial.Warning this isn't a fluffy preamp..if you want fluffy buy a Cary tube preamp.But if you are looking for a natural sound thats fairly neutral ..this is it.Maximum output seems to be around 2 or 3 volts.Plenty for most amplifiers.
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