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Preamp Opinion

A couple of weeks ago, I asked for advice on my amp and preamp. Although I am sure that it could be improved, I have come to the conclusion that the Parasound A23 is the least of my problems. I also have a Parasound New Classic 2100 preamp, a Marantz 8600 CD player/streamer (which I also think doesn't need to be replaced), and Focal Aria 926 speakers. I did listen to advice I was given and am expecting a vintage McIntosh SL-1 sub to my system.

I am looking at a few used preamps and wanted to get your opinions on them since the only one I have heard is the Adcom GFP-750 and that was years ago. My memory is that it had a very good sound to it. The other preamps I am considering are the Rotel RC-1572, Rogue RP-1, Coplant CTA 301 MKII, Bryston BP6, and Vincent SA-T7. Unfortunately, I have not heard any of them and don't have a location where I can. I tend to prefer a sound that is not too bright but provides a good clear soundstage and imaging. I have always owned solid state before and am a little leery of tube maintenance.

Thank you for your advice or observations about any of these preamps.
bcool57
prebs
19 posts
 
I would go for a reasonable priced Parasound JC2 from the used marked. I've ran this on a A21, JC5 and JC1 with great luck. The synergy between parasound's own product line is what I would choose. Dead quiet pre with loads of details with matching source!! Deep bottom with abit rolled off tops. Never got any fattigue from this pre ever.... Only downside on this pre would be the trigger-happy volum control on remote, but you will get used to it and learn the tapping-touch in flash. Good luck
rbertalotto
138 posts
 
My vote...Schiit Freya+... I've had a ton of preamps over the years. But I read so many amazing reviews on the Freya that I decided to find one and buy it. I like buying used equipment and I found a Freya non-plus and bought it for $600. They say the Freya has more noise than the Freya Plus. These 70 year old ears can't hear any noise in the original Freya. All I can tell you is that the sound stage the definition the air is simply amazing on this preamp. And the ability to use tubes are not on certain recordings is a great feature. For $1,000 I don't think it can be beat.
hshifi
572 posts
 
Hello,
I think you should check out a used PS Audio BHK preamp. They go for $3500 used but well worth it. They are super quiet and very reliable. You can roll the tubes but I don’t think you will need to. I hope this helped. 
bcool57 OP
24 posts
 
@ jkf011

I know that Conrad Johnson makes good equipment. I looked at some of it back in the day. Unfortunately, most of it is outside of my price range. What about the Conrad-Johnson PV-10AL or  CONRAD JOHNSON CT-6? Have you heard either of them? Which gives the best sound?
ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,770 posts
 
@jayctoy @ditusa @wolfe_garcia @georgehifi and others who have commented so positively on the Schitt gear. Good to hear such high praise of the Freya. Quick question - is it your "forever" preamp? Or are you of a mind to eventually replace it with something else?
The Schiit Freya+ stereo preamplifier is without doubt an excellent performer, Its three preamps in one. I use it with my solid state amps and tube amp and it sounds great with stock tubes. My speaker's efficiency is 2.7 % In my system the Freya+ is noise free. I use NOS 6sn7GT Ken-Rad (Pre-Ge) staggered plates with black carbonized glass. For me it’s a keeper. You will not find a better tube preamp that is balanced and remote controlled with a 5-Year Warranty and Easy Return Policy, and you can purchase brand new for $950.00! BTW, The Ken-Rad tubes are dated 1944 cost $300.00  factor that in the total price. Hope that helps. Mike
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