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Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?

As the title says, I am pondering my best options for purchasing a tube based preamp for $2k or under. Must have a remote! 

 

Your opinions, thoughts, and expertise would be greatly appreciated. If I was spending more, I would know most of the best choices, but I'm on unfamiliar ground at this price limit. But sometimes, you can only do what you can do. 

Thanks for any help. 

nightfall
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
6,000 posts
 

I would second (from reading and friends' experiences):

Cary audio SLP-98 with 6SN7 tubes (many say these tubes sound great)
VTL older 2.5 (I own one built in 2013 it's a tank
Modwright  SWL 9.0 or LS100

I also would really look hard at Aric Audio, e.g.: this one.
Or another.
Aric is very polite, writes back quickly, engaged in his work, great customer reviews and reports.

nightfall OP
257 posts
 

Aric is a great guy, and makes wonderful stuff. I own one of his 300B power amps. But the preamp you recommended, while I am sure is outstanding,  is $4200.00 new, and you could go years without finding one used. 

nightfall OP
257 posts
 

hilde45, thanks for that recommendation. Honestly, the DeHavilland UltraVerve III is at the top of my wish list. However, as you know, these only rarely pop up for sale, and the vast majority seem to be units without remote control. :(

nightfall OP
257 posts
 

Thanks also to those who have recommended Cary SLP-98's, another unit I was considering, though they seem to be selling a bit over my $3k limit. And the Modwright LS100 is also a great recommendation you provided. I once owned one, and would have no trouble buying another one.  

paradisecom
503 posts
 

Lots of people rave about the Quicksilver preamp. 

Would a remote control be needed? 

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