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What qualities stand out in really good solid state preamps?

Recently I posted on the Herron HL-1, asking people what they thought, how it compared, etc. It's been sold and that's ok. The search continues. 

But it raises a question I'd like to ask folks:

What attributes do you look for in a good solid state preamp?

Some qualities — quietness, durability, seem pretty obvious.

But what other criteria do you use to differentiate between solid state preamps?

How can they differ and what matters to you?

Please let me know!

P.S. As I've looked around, I've begun to learn more about some of the legendary preamps — made by companies such as Threshold, Ayre, Bryston, Pass, Apt-Holman, and others. It's good to have these names as references, but it would be even more useful if I knew what these brands conveyed, sonically. I've played with the idea of getting a newer Schiit preamp and then I wonder -- what if there's a "classic" preamp out there, used? What would it deliver that was worth searching for?

128x128hilde45
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,930 posts
 

I’d have to say objectively the best will share characteristics of extended smooth frequency response, low noise, and low distortion.

That was easy, eh?  But wait, there’s more….

In addition to that features matter. Does it have the needed inputs? Outputs? Any other desirable features to help tune the sound?

Then comes aesthetics. Looks matter, as does feel. High quality preamps have controls that are a pleasure to use. Smooth, firm, functional, robust . Ahh….

I think that covers it.

 

 

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,511 posts
 

Neutrality. You do not want to notice a preamp. It's only supposed to be a switching center. It's should be revelatory not additive.

soix
8,939 posts
 

Really comes down to what sound characteristics you’re looking for, but if I was to boil it down to one word it’d be refinement. Specifically, a pre that is naturally detailed and not harsh or etched along with being well balanced and offering good tonality. 3D soundstage is a strength of tubes, so to the extent you can get a good dose of that in a SS pre that’d be a big plus. I think a good example of such things, and given that you were looking at the Herron, something like this Ayre would be in the ballpark…

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisb88c9-ayre-acoustics-k-5xe-mp-stereo-preamplifier-56586-solid-state

Hope this helps somewhat, and best of luck in your search.

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