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SS Preamp (HT bypass) sub $5k

I upgraded my preamp earlier this year to an Atoll pr400. This was a major upgrade from my prior Parasound P6. The Atoll added excellent detail and instrument separation throughout the frequency range. It is super engaging, yet non.fatiguing. This component has been truly revelatory. 

My issue is the soundstage is a bit forward. It's not a deal breaker by any means, but I'm curious to try something else in a similar class to see how my system responds. I realize this is just unnecessary itch scratching. 

My requirements are HT bypass input and XLR out. I don't need onboard digital or phono. Power amps are Van Alstine m225. Speakers are Spendor 2/3.

I was looking at used Ayre preamps. Does the community have any other suggestions of units I should seek out? I'm shopping used. Budget is sub $5k. Tubes aren't an option, because this has to go in a vented cabinet.

 

frl
frl OP
42 posts
 

Yes,  I'm seeking  more depth, a generally more recessed presentation , if that makes sense. I'm shopping used. 

peter_s
1,439 posts
 

I know you say tubes aren't an option, but you should give a call to Backert Labs. Although their preamps have 2 tubes., they don't seem too worried about ventilation. And they make a great preamp with multiple outs (for your sub) and HT passthru.

elliottbnewcombjr
7,729 posts
 

After too many years of frustrated limited access/ventilation:

I cut huge access holes in the back of my cabinet, for hands, arms, head if needed, access, lots of ventilation. The problem is seeing the wires against the white wall behind.

I made a floating back panel of matching color.

I hung it loosely 1-1/2" behind the back of my cabinet, it slides/lifts off, have at everything, then hang the panel behind the wires, push/roll the cabinet back in place.

Black might work, I had a matching wood panel from the back of the old upper cabinet I removed.

The cabinet floats 1/4" above the floor on concealed wheels, 4 of these

frl OP
42 posts
 

My cabinet is well ventilated and open to the back.   I just don't think I want to put tubes in there and have to worry about turning my preamp off and warming it up.

 

 

 

 

soix
11,233 posts
 

I owned a Bryston BP6 that excelled in transparency/detail without harshness (think straight wire with gain) and threw a very open and deep 3D soundstage, which is one of the main reasons why I bought it.  This BP26 should be even better and has balanced connections, and at $2450 is half your $5k budget and is still under warranty (not that you’ll ever likely need it with Bryston).  Best of luck. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650264242-bryston-bp-26-with-mps-2-power-supply/

 

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