2. amps-preamps
  3. 138849-2206

Preamp Input for Coincident system - Don Sachs, deHavilland, LTA, Joule Electra?

Hi all, I'm looking to spend around 2k on a pre-amp (either new or used) to pair with my Coincident PREs (currently using their Frankenstein mono-blocks as amps; input impedance of 100kOhms). 

I'm looking for something very natural sounding, with good body, some warmth, and -importantly- it must have a remote.  The PREs are very sensitive up on top, so I need clean highs. 

I've been reading a lot of threads and have a few contenders.  Am hoping to solicit some input from anyone who might have compared the following (with PROs / CONs listed):

1.  Don Sachs SP14 - good reviews, available in budget new / long wait to get a unit
2.  LTA MZ2 - some awesome reviews, available with 10-day trial period / some "meh" revies, perhaps a bit of a "clean" sound?
3.  deHavilland  UltraVerve 3 - good reviews mentioning the "relaxing" nature - a good key word for me / new it is out of budget at 3k
4. Joule Electra LA-150 MKII - in budget used, reviews mention strengths in "tone" & "texture" - highly desirable for me / a fairly old product  

Other things to note... 

I'm currently running a PS Audio PW DAC directly to my amps and listen to all types of music; perhaps currently tilted towards "modern" music with electronica and indie influences.  I stream Tidal via ethernet via PS Audio's Bridge II card in the dac.  

While I'm sure others will criticize the DAC, I really like the PWD and it has compared favorably to both a DirectStream (the music became less natural and more analytical) and Lyngdorf TDAI 3400 (the music was very smooth, but slightly less natural with a less well delineated soundstage). 

Unfortunately, the PWD has a bad volume control (throwing away bits at under 50% volume) and the new PREs really show that distortion off.  As such, I don't like listening at low volumes... hence the desire to add a pre-amp. 

Also, obviously I'd love to get Coincident's 101D pre-amp, but I need the remote, so it doesn't work for me.  I tracked the remote version for a long time and was hoping to save up money to purchase, but apparently it was plagued by technical difficulties and often needed service (presumably that's the reason Isreal discontinued it). 

Appreciate any input.

- Chris
128x128cal3713
cal3713's avatar
cal3713 OP
1,421 posts
 
Thanks again for the input folks.  A few responses:

1)  Lots of positive things about The Truth.  Given some of the similarities between my system and folks using that pre-amp (and that I have plenty of gain and am currently going direct from DAC), this might be ideal.  I just reached out to the manufacturer to find out cost and time.  Nice that it would be the cheapest option as well.

2)  I was looking into the Backert models... but did see them get beat out in a few competitions by the other models listed above.  Unfortunately no used units available at this time, although I'm not against waiting around and shopping (although I am motivated to move given that I can't fully enjoy low volume listening with my current setup).

3)  Thanks for all the positive information on the deHavilland units.  Perhaps that's enough to push it into the lead if The Truth doesn't work out or if I don't decide to order it.
4hannons's avatar
4hannons
187 posts
 

Chris, where are you at? I've got both the Dehavilland and Don Sachs. I'm in Sacramento if you want to audition.

~Tom


cal3713's avatar
cal3713 OP
1,421 posts
 
@4hannons Really appreciate the offer... unfortunately on the wrong side of the Rockies in Denver.

@thaluza & @markwatkiss Just put in an order for The Truth.  Dual power supplies, 3 inputs, & "new" photo cells = $1050.  Added a remote ($300) & the upgraded wire options (1 OCC silver & 2 OCC copper; $150).  $1500 total with a 3-4 week wait.  Money back guarantee "if not shocked" and "the warranty is 1010 years (990 longer than Bryston!)."  Given all the positive feedback, the no-risk demo, and the fact that that's cheaper than all other considered options, it seemed like a good place to start...

I'll report back, although of course my only comparison at this point will be the PWD direct.  Thanks for your thoughts.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,219 posts
 
Hi Chris,
Your short list of preamplifier candidates is a good one particularly the DeHavilland. The Atmasphere MP-3 is also very good. I must say though that the Horneshoppe Truth may be the way to go. I am an extremely happy owner of the Coincident Statement Line Stage (CLS) x 9 years.

According to all that I’ve read including Arthur Salvatore the Truth is as superb if not better! That’s high praise given the excellence of the CLS. I just love my CLS and Frankenstein pairing and won’t change it.

If I were however in your situation I’d give the Truth Line Stage major consideration. Savatore said it’s a fantastic match with the Frankenstein. He believes that the Truth can’t be beaten by other Line Stages..
Charles
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,219 posts
 
Chris,
I see your posted just prior to mine above 😊. I believe that you made a very wise choice and agree with your chosen upgrades. I look forward to your listening impressions when mated to the sublime Frankenstein. 
Charles 
More to discover