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Best tube preamp for Quicksilver V4 tube mono's (newest KT150 version)

Just purchased a pair of Quicksilver V4 mono tube amps, the newest KT150 version.  Will be arriving this coming Wednesday.

http://quicksilveraudio.com/products/v4/

Single ended
Input impedance is 100 K ohms
Input sensitivity is 1.5 volts

Now need to purchase a nice preamp.  Would like to get the most 'bang for buck' by getting a very nice condition used pre-amp.

On my radar so far is:

EAR 868
Audible Illusions M3b or L3a
Herron VTSP-360

I have had 2 different AI M3a pre-amps in the past, so I am very familiar with Audible Illusions 'sound'... not sure what is the differences between the AI M3b and AI L3a, besides the M3b having  phono stage options and the L3a remote controlled volume?

No experience with Herron or EAR, but from what I have read EAR, if compatible, may be the best performing?

Suggestions greatly appreciated. 

Also would like to hear from other V4 owners.


Rick
rich121
jim94025
58 posts
 
In your mind was there any difference between the balanced and unbalanced versions?
Jim
decooney
2,565 posts
 
@fjn04 04-18-2018 8:12amI had the balanced and unbalanced V4’s. I really enjoyed these amps, though I have never heard the KT 150. I tried an EAR 912, and I can tell you from a sound and synergy perspective, it was a good match. I believe I had the balanced version of the V4’s at the time. If I had these amps again, the preamp I would want to try would be Shindo.

Which Shindo preamplifier?

Currently running a 6SN7 based tube preamp with my QS mono amps (KT150s) and really like it, thus maximizing the capability of the amps. Interested in what others have tried. Seeing several preamps listed on the Shindo site.

fjn04
1,561 posts
 
I have the VR, Vosne Romane. Funny on the timing here because I'm considering getting another QS...but either Sixty watt mono or Mono 120. This is to drive second speaker I recently purchased...Harbeth C7 w/ Ton Trager stands.Have not tried Shindo w/ Quicksilver but I have no reason to think it won't be wonderful. Great amp you just bought. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,737 posts
 
I would also consider a CJ especially if you stick single ended
cooperdelia
3 posts
 
I am a longtime Shindo preamp owner and lover, but have found often found that if your amp doesn’t have any gain controls, it may be difficult to get enough workable range on the volume to make the pairing workable. 
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