McIntoish C8 or PrimaLuna EVO 300
Both of the McIntoish C8 and PrimaLuna EVO 300 preamps seem to check the boxes in terms of inputs, outputs and features, and I can lift them. Does anyone have experience of either or both of these preamps?
I think my system is in need of a bit of warmth, I have noticed recently that the very highest violin notes are a bit aggressive - in the recent past I've been listening to mainly choral works and had not noticed this.
I was playing the Hilary Hahn sonatas and partitas, (I have the disks and digital) and noticed the problem. I dug up my 40 year old (!) C-J PV6 and the sound was sweet to the top, but that pre-amp lost the air and space of the choral recordings; everything was warm and cuddly but the sense of the recording space was lost.
My interconnects are Cardas Clear Reflection and I have the issue on both analog and digital - and with SS or tubed Power amps.
My current preamp is the Benchmark LA4 which is, perhaps, a bit on the analytical side of neutral.
Changing from my Rockport Atria II speakers is NOT an option.
So, I am looking for warmth but not losing the sense of the space, Am I asking too much in the $5k price bracket?
Mapletree has Preamps and a Phono/Line Preamp with a rear switch allowing either 12sn7 tubes or 6sn7’s. Manual Balance; Remote Volume, HT Bypass; separate power supply https://www.mapletreeaudio.com/ manual https://www.mapletreeaudio.com/manuals/Ultra-4CRM-manual-with-Notice.pdf
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Aric also has a Super 6sn7 Preamp https://www.stereotimes.com/post/aric-audio-super-6sn7-linestage-preamplifier-by-mike-wright/ Cary also https://caryaudio.com/products/slp-98/ 6sn7 discussion on Audiogon |
@elliottbnewcombjr the Aric and the Cary look like strong contenders. I'll investigate further. The Aric looks beautiful. Thanks @allenf1963 Yes it was a type!
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Cary Shows and Tells you NOTHING about their Remote "Remote Control: See Remote Control insert included in original box" I cannot tell you how many companies do not show a photo of their remote. ............... Their balance is split, two manual controls, not remote controlled. I don't know if the remote has MUTE? They do combine MM Phono with Line in one unit, and have both Tape In and a Tape Loop (tape out/monitor), I like that a lot. There is no Stereo/Mono mode switch I would use the tape in for my Reel to Reel and the Tape Out/Monitor In for optional use of my Chase RLC-1 Remote Line Controller with Remote Volume and Balance and Mute on the same control. That lets you use the Chase Optionally, that's when you realize you cannot detect any degradation. ......................
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Aric https://aricaudio.com/select-my-preamp/ No Balance of any kind. No Stereo/Mono. No Tape Loop "All of my line-stages use the same basic circuit, feature a Khozmo remote volume system, 4 sets of stereo inputs and 2 sets of stereo outputs. 5 step selectable output level is incorporated on all of them as well to gain match to virtually any amp. For those looking for the best 6SN7 linestages- please see my Super 6SN7, ML II and ML XL. For those seeking to experiment with more sonic flavors, this preamp is The Jackpot. Available in balanced and RCA only versions." I see MUTE in the photo of the Volume Remote, and you can turn the display on/off Phono is always separate from the Line Preamp "gain control on the phono stage can be used as a volume (although it’s on the rear of the unit). It can be placed on the front panel or top plate upon request." |
