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Suggestions for a tube pre and power amp

Dear Audio Friends,

I am writing to seek your experienced suggestions regarding an upgrade to my current stereo setup. My current system consists of Revel F328Be speakers powered by a Luxman 590Mk2 Class A integrated amp. My frontend includes a Sonic Transporter (Roon core) powered by a Farad LPS, a Holo Red streamer, and a Holo May KTE DAC.

I am considering transitioning to a tube preamplifier and a solid-state power amplifier combination. While my speakers have a 91dB sensitivity, the impedance dips to 3 ohms between 100Hz and 200Hz.

My current shortlists are as follows:

- Power Amps: Coda S5.5 Class A or Coda No. 8 V1.

- Tube Preamps: Backert Labs Rhumba, Spatial Audio Raven, or Motherlode XL.

 

I am looking for a 3D holographic, warm sound with a high level of clarity and detail. While I am aware of the general rules regarding impedance matching, I would value your insights on how these specific components might pair together. I am also very open to any other combinations you might recommend.

 

Thank you for your help.

Rlal

lals
fthompson251's avatar
fthompson251
744 posts
 

I think your "wish list" is spot on. Any of those pre amps are supposed to be very good. I can vouch for the Coda s5.5-it is really good. I've had one a couple years now. Dead silence backgrounds and a beautiful top end.

tcutter's avatar
tcutter
386 posts
 

I use a Vinnie Rossi L2 SE preamp with 300 Bs in an OTL/OCL design driving Pass Labs XA 60.8 monoblocks. I agree with @yyzsantabarbara  that the sound is detailed and holographic. 
 

One occasionally sees these on sale for roughly $8000 for the preamp and $8000 for the pair of amps. Money well spent. I've also read very nice things about both the Backert preamps and anything Allnic. 

lals OP
55 posts
 

Thank you milpai, will check your systems page. I used to own Harbeth long back. I assume  ProAcs are also similar sounding. 

lals OP
55 posts
 
Thank you sls883. Sure will talk to Doug Dale and find out his suggestions. Regarding balanced or unbalanced preamp from input to output  I need to find out the advantages and then decide.
lals OP
55 posts
 

Thank you jackd.

I just saw a post about new preamp from Aric audio. Oh that's a very long wait time. I am not sure about the wait time for Raven preamp need to find out. Good luck for your new preamp, hope you will be super happy with it.

Regarding the amp I will find out, I live in a cold place hence heat is not an issue but I need t find out which one suits Revel F328Be more.

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