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Best Value Line Stage Tube Preamps?

Given they are all multi-input, multi-output, balanced line stage tube preamps, what are sonic benefits of a serious Rogue RP-7 or Prima Luna EVO 400 vs. the $899 Schiit Freya Plus? Currently these would feed a Parasound Halo A21 into Legacy Signature SEs, with all cables and speaker placement constant. I know the relevant mfrs/dealers all offer trial and/or return policies, but living far from any source and disliking return hassles, I'm soliciting expert opinions before (preferably, in lieu of) undertaking in-home experiments.
I know that much depends on one's own listening habits and sonic signature preferences, but surely differences in power supply, output impedances, etc. might be objective benefits to spending the 5x more coin for a bigger, badder device?
hickamore
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,727 posts
 
VTL
ARC ( used SP series )
Quicicksilver
Backert

you have lots of great options

if you want the free amp route, Aestmakes an awesome Integrated
hickamore OP
774 posts
 
Don't need integrated these days, but the product info is good to hold for the dreaded day when the component footprint must shrink along with its owner. Checking out the rest except ARC, which I already know, and whose company, like the few geniuses of my acquaintance still living, I will never deserve.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
6,499 posts
 
Audible Illusions
rongold's avatar
rongold
49 posts
 
I, too, listen to Eva Cassidy via a new Audible Illusions line stage and it sounds GREAT. AI is an old line preamp, still made in Fla. They make as they sell ‘em. But a # are available used. When I first installed my first one used, some 15 years ago, I was blown away with the sound. I recently upgraded to a new one, it’s great‼️
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
6,499 posts
 
@rongold...do you have the new L3B?  Art is a good friend of mine.  I heard the new line stage and it is indeed wonderful.  I like the new faceplate and the rounded buttons.  Nice updated look.
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