Another tube preamp "What should I buy" question.

My McIntosh mx110z Tube Tuner/Preamp was made in 1964, overhauled by Audio Classics in 2021, it is full featured, only 66 years old, and can be overhauled again if needed, keep it going another 20 years easily enough.

You might buy one, have it shipped directly to Audio Classics. There are a lot of them, I don’t think you need to buy two like you might with other models.

This is why I took a chance on mine

https://positive-feedback.com/Issue77/vintage_mcintosh_experience.htm

My integrated Amp has remote volume, but I love remote balance, so I use a Chase Remote Line Controller RLC-1 in all my systems. Several friends have bought their own after hearing it in my system, totally transparent.

You MUST have the remote, there are no controls on the unit. (they get lost, they don’t break)

https://www.ebay.com/itm/257022464525?mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&campid=5338381866&toolid=10001&customid=814d2026-30f9-11f1-a6f7-626461666562

FM Tuner

RICHARD MODAFFERI said there is nothing he could do to improve the excellent tuner in it (as long as you give it a good signal). My antenna (in the attic above) is aimed at WBGO’s antenna, most people have never heard excellent FM, this sounds great.

https://www.audioclassics.com/mods

Wait for the Galion navy tube preamp , I will choose thiis preamp ahead of Backert and Aric though both excellent but pricey , The Galion won’t be available until late April or early May.Backert and Aric are my fav preamp before Thomas release the Navy.

@rocray +1

Also, if this is the preamp you want for 20 years, a 6 month wait is not too much to ask. I run mine with both Atmasphere Class D monos and a custom Radu Tarta 45 SET into 106dB Charney Audio speakers. Both are DEAD SILENT.  I would also recommend getting Ken-Rad VT 231 tubes for the Motherload XL. Musical heaven!

I can't count, it's only 62 years young

@dseltz good points.  And Aric mentioned to me that the wait is now more like 5 months and he hopes to be able to cut that down more in the coming months. So, @rowester it’d be good to check in with him as you get closer to a decision to see what the time line is like more accurately.