2. amps-preamps
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Don Sachs 2 vs. deHavilland Ultraverve 3

There seem to be quite a few discussions and reviews on these preamps, but I haven’t seen any direct comparisons (I have done several searches).

Both are octal / 6SN7 tube line stages, include similar inputs/outputs, have similar features including optional remotes, place the tubes above the case, and are similarly priced. I would be grateful to hear about how they differ regarding their:

  • Sound (reviews of both say they are detailed and also include aspects of the traditional/warm tube sound, but I can't tell how they compare to each other) and

  • Design and Performance (ie the impact of design differences such as 4 6SN7 tubes in the Sachs as opposed to 1 in the deHavilland or the 48 step Khozmo remote ($200) vs the 32 step deHavilland remote ($500), etc.)

I have seen at least one thread where a member discussed experiences with both preamps, but I could not see any comparisons (such as the Sachs was more [fill in the blank] than the deHavilland).

Obviously it would be great to hear from members that have heard both preamps. There may be members that have not heard both, but may have insights into the potential impact of their design differences, and I'd be interested in hearing from them also.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts!!

swingfingers
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soix
8,651 posts
 
Hey Don, now that we've got your ear here, any plans to do an integrated amp in the future?
donsachs
234 posts
 
I have thought about it, but it would be low powered, probably el84 based or 6V6, and 15-19 watts/ch.   The problem is that I cannot fit the best line stage and the best power amp in any sort of smaller case so have thought about compromises that would be best.   I could probably produce such a beast for $2500-3000.   It would be very good, but I would have to do a prototype in the cheapo Chinese case, see how it sounds, tweak it, and then do a custom case.  The custom cases require that I commit to buying at least 10 of them in a year's time to get a good price.   I am not sure I would sell 10 integrated amps in a year.  Most folks like 65 watts/ch, not 15-19:)

I am pretty stunned at the prices people charge for amps these days.  Customers always describe their system when considering my preamp.   I see 300b amps with mundane power supplies in fancy cases for $5000+.  Geez.   I build a kt88 amp with fully regulated supplies for $3300.   Anyway..... not sure when I would do an integrated, but it would be lower powered and have to fit in a smaller case.  That requires compromises.
rlb61
742 posts
 
What cheapo Chinese cases are you speaking of?
donsachs
234 posts
 
The par metal ones because they are in New Jersey and you can get most any sizes.  I don't think they manufacture there though, they just stock parts.  Maybe I am wrong.  Anyway, you can get a cheap case and then have cnc panels made for $125 or so.   It is the same sort of case Roy sells for the sp14 kits.   I still use them for phono preamps.  There is nothing wrong with them, just that they are not fancy.  They work.   Once a product is done though, then I want a much nicer case for production ones.......
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