Advice on what preamp to select.

OK so getting back to the original posts question. The answer would be a Adcom 565 pre amp, if you can find one, they are a steal at $300 or less ( a great sounding unit for the money). I think the best Tube based preamp like a Audio Research would work some real magic with those mono blocks. A great sounding tube based pre from McIntosh or AR would set you back many thousands of $$. The Solid state AV Macs you refer to are mediocre at best sounding. Find a Modwright SWL 9.0 or a Manley labs J shrimp or a Dehavilland ultraverve lll, or Doge 8! Get something that will inject some real feeling into those Adcoms and DQ10’s! At a great price too!

http://www.stereomojo.com/Doge%208%20Preamplifier%20Review.htm/Doge8PreamplifierReview.htm


http://www.dehavillandhifi.com/UltraVerve-Preamplifier.htm


http://6moons.com/audioreviews/manley6/jumboshrimp.html


http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649074964-modwright_swl_90_se_preamp_signature_edition_outstandin...

Matt M

thanks all for your input. Like the Vincent but would need a phono section .
What do you think about the Conrad Johnson PV-7?

Have an AR SP9 upgraded past a MK111. The phono is very good. So @ $1100 good value and get it upgraded further down the track if you have a good tech.

Seeing Vincent mentioned, the best Pre-Amp I own and have heard for the money is the Vincent SA-T8. Competes with or bests Pre's costing much,much more. Above your budget and line level only.

A used Audible illusions 3a would fit your needs nicely. It has 1600ohms output impedance however. What is input impedance of your monos? 

Interested and would like to see more on your SP9.  How do we proceed?