Modwright LS-100, Rogue RP-7, Aesthetix Calypso
I currently own a Rogue RP-1 and am looking to upgrade. Budget is ~2,500 (used). I have shortlisted the following 4 preamps:
- Rogue RP-7 (V1)
- Aestetix Calypso (Standard)
- Modwright LS-100
- Modwright SWL 9.0 AE
In order of preference: smoothness, dynamics, moderate to light warmth, detail, soundstage.
It is being paired with a Classe CA-2200 amp, Laiv uDAC+uDDC, and a pair of Audio Concepts Jaguar 2000s.
I like how the RP-1 has the dynamics and detail of a SS but also adds some tube warmth and smoothness.
Would love to hear your experience with any of these 4 preamps individually, how they compare, or how you would characterize their sound.
Thanks!
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- 17 posts total
Also got my attention, never saw or heard one. https://reverb.com/item/94882992-margules-sf220-tube-preamp-20th-anniversary-black-edition AI Quickie The Margules SF220 is a stereo vacuum tube preamplifier celebrated for its rich harmonic structure, fast transient response, and low output impedance designed to drive both solid-state and tube amplifiers optimally. Reviews, including those of the 20th Anniversary (SF220.15) and Black Edition models, describe its sound as warm yet detailed, with a "yin" character that avoids being overly bright or rolled off while maintaining lifelike scale and stunning vocal presence. Key technical features highlighted in reviews include a shunt power supply for improved Q damping and smoother dynamics, zero negative feedback circuitry achieved by strapping the input and output stages, and a separate internal power chamber to minimize noise induction. The preamplifier utilizes five 12AU7 dual triodes with a DC filament supply featuring active damping to reduce hum, and its frequency response spans 5-400 kHz with Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) below 0.014%. Pricing and availability have varied over the years, with the 20th Anniversary model (circa 2015) listed around $3,500–$4,599, while the Black Edition (circa 2019-2021) was offered at approximately $3,700 and later seen on the used market for $2,295. The 30th Anniversary Special Edition was priced at $8,000 and contributed to Margules Audio winning the "Best of Show" award at AXPONA 2025, praised for its tangibility and rhythmic poise in high-end systems. |
another Luxman, I like Mode Switches, like McIntosh gives you https://reverb.com/item/94879295-luxman-luxkit-a3300-tube-preamp |
A Conrad Johnson, never saw or heard this model https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/650301396-conrad-johnson-tube-preamp-ct6/
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- 17 posts total