2. amps-preamps
  3. 146540-80696

HELP!!! I need a “GOOD-CHEAP” preamp solution???

I would appreciate the community’s thoughts about replacing my NAD C356 BEE integrated amp (it’s being used as my preamp) in my modest but nice sounding 2 channel audio system. Why replace the NAD? The remote no longer talks to the amp, I’ve already replaced the large pc board ($275) and it’s running hot with a dark brown spot on the blue pc board. Scary. 

Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.

The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs. 

Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???

Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
keeferdog
keeferdog OP
50 posts
 
@maine95 
After seeing all the positive recommendations for Van Alstine, I actually called yesterday and Frank answered all of my questions. We spoke about the T 10 RB pre. It has (2 preouts) that I need. As you mentioned, it can be ordered with the same phono pre he sells as a stand alone unit for $100 less if ordered installed in the preamp. Remotes are always nice too!
 
Thanks everyone for the heads up on the many great “value” preouts on the market. 
schubert
7,386 posts
 
I live about 10 miles from Van Alstine .Twice I have had problem with 2 of his pre-amps both of which were MY Fault!   .Went to Frank , he himself fixed them both within an hour whilst I listened to his system .
Total cost was zero !
As he says himself , "I don’t know everything but what I do know, I know well".
keeferdog OP
50 posts
 
@schubert When I called Frank yesterday, he definitely had his stereo volume up and enjoying some type of guitar tune. It’s what you do when it’s -20 out in the dead of winter. I should know, I just moved from Marquette, Mi (I’ve never been happier) and “you guys” can have those long, cold winters. 

So, how do you like those two preamps you own? Love to hear your thoughts and impressions. 

Thanks 

schubert
7,386 posts
 
Well , the two pre- amps were a few years apart, I own only the Vision version at present .The Vision has things I want in a pre .
1 A gain switch
2. A balance knob. IMO every pre-amp should have one to help with your room problems .
3, Six inputs , for two TT’s at a time and tuner in my case .

Along with the optional phono pre-amp this allows me to control any cartridge in my system , I’m a vinyl guy with 3 TT’s with 6 different
carts in 6 head shells for my DD .
I have the remote but wouldn’t cry if I didn’t .I want tubes some place in my system so I run the Vision SS with my tube amp , works better for me to not have an all SS or all tube system .
The overwhelming character of the Vision is typical AVA clarity and neutrality. And that’s what I want in the classical and jazz music that is 95 % of my listening .It runs all class A .

The TB may be better for you to get a bit of warmth .You can get clarity in a 2 tube pre but will cost you about at least $200 in new tubes IF you are lucky . It’s fun to play with tubes but good ones cost .The TB may have the typical clarity of Van Alstine in the SS version over the tube TB.
Never heard them , can’t say -for most not a problem either way.If it might be for you just ask Frank .
.
fbpearce
51 posts
 
New: agree (personal experience) with Van Alstine products
Used: DeHavilland Ultraverve can sometimes be found around your price limit-this one is in my system now, very happy
More to discover