Preamp Upgrade Advice


I'm pretty new to higher end preamps, but looking for one to take over my current system. I had been using the preamp built into my Sonnet Morpheus DAC (which i'll be keeping for now until I upgrade to a Pasithea or something else, the preamp portion on these is functional but very basic). I have a benchmark LA4 right now, which works and is very clean, but its an almost overly dry and neutral sound. I'm looking for something with a warmer and fuller sound. Not sure if I want tubes or not, i've traditionally stuck to solid state but i've only ever tried budget tube amps before which were always too muddy and veiled for me

 

Only real criteria is it needs to have low output impedance to fit with my amps (ideally 50-100 ohms), balanced is a plus but not absolutely necessary. Doesn't need phono or a dac. If anyone has experience comparing the below i'd greatly appreciate it. Budget is $5-10k

 

Pass Labs XP-12 (current top choice, I've heard it before but not at home)

Audio Research LS-3 or LS-2

Conrad Johnson ET6/ET6SE

Rogue Audio RP-7 or RP-9

Bricasti M20 (over budget, but I could stretch for it)

Bryston BR-20 or BP-19

Naim NAC 322

 

baldassinia

Ypsilon PST100 is another 50-100% more than your budget, but well worth it.   The detail revealed is remarkable!

One of the leading factors to consider when buying a preamp is getting one with adjustable gain. Having a preamp with too much gain is less than ideal. Coda, Audia, Audible Illisions are 3 manufacturers that provide adjustable gain. There are plenty more but this provides a starting point. 

OP

please add to your list the Linear Tube audio Microzotl Preamp

its tube based but has a synergistic sound of a SS but with warmth. you control the tone via tube rolling. 

 

what power and speakers are you driving?

=1 ARC Reference 5SE 

You can usually find one for around $5500-$6000.  Will be hard to find something better in your price range.  Conrad Johnson would be my second choice.