New to Preamp - Preamp suggestion around 10k
Hello all! I am new to this site, and preamp. Thiss might be niche, but I am using a Stax headphone with its amp, which has a bypass function for external preamp. I am trying to add a slight bit of warmth, plus better dynamics and imaging.
Currently I have found some good ones (and available), from what I've seen on this site, as follows:
Rogue Audio RP-9
Cary SLP-05 (around 11k with the "ultimate upgrade")
I've also seen ARC Ref 6 suggested, but there seems to be a lack of sellers in my place. As for SLP-05, the distributor at my place said there was no demo, even for the standard version......which left me with RP-9 for audition. Would much appreciate your opinions on them, and any alternatives!
Thank you in advance!
So far I’ve only owned the MC SUT’s by EAR (absolutely fantastic SUT’s), but I’ve long been curious about their other tube electronics. Especially their preamps and HP-4 headphone amp. I bet they’re fantastic. If I were to pick another brand to try on a whim, EAR would be atop my list, then Manley :) Interesting, I didn’t realize the T-8000 had that feature. Must be a volume control bypass intended for DAC’s with a digital control. What you’re trying to achieve here seems reasonable! |
@mulveling: David Manley was also active in the Pro Audio sector, as was Tim de Paravicini (Pink Floyd’s studio, Kav Alexander’s Water Lily Records fantastic tape recorder, on which was recorded A Meeting By The River album). I have an old friend (they’re all old ;-) who has a Manley mic pre-amp in his recording studio, and loves it. I’ve spent some time conversing with EveAnna at a coupla CESes and Stereophile shows, and found her to be a very cool, interesting person. |
https://tmraudio.com/components/preamplifiers/luxman-c-900u-stereo-preamplifier-c900u-remote/ TMR has the Luxman C 900u. I purchased same unit from them months ago.
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I own 2 LA-4 pre-amps from Benchmark Audio and Love them. Considerably cheaper than 10K. With remote (metal) about 3K free shipping, 30 day trial period, 5 year warranty, USA upstate NY, been around for ages Rory is excellent to deal with. did I mention balanced What do you have to lose? A human always answers the phone and promptly too. Robert TN |
