Odyssey Audio Candela is worth looking into into. Responds well to tube rolling. Loves nos Amperex.
The Rogue RP-1 is quite popular here. Certain a past or current owner will respond.
What Tube Preamplifier Under $1800 to Choose?
Hello to all:
I have a solid state setup (upgraded McCormack DNA125, passive preamplifier, Pontus II 12th DAC, and URD CD transport), and I am thinking about acquiring a tube based preamplifier to give more warmth, bloom, and less "edgy" (smoother?) high frequencies. I see preamplifiers like the Quicksilver (12at7 tubes), or things like the Rogue RP-1 (12au7 tube output stage), and others. I am overall aiming at a slightly more smooth, warm, and less SS sounding quality (particularly in the higher frequencies). For those of you with tube & SS experience, what preamplifier would you be looking for to meet the sound criteria I am seeking? I do not want to spend much above $1800. Thanks in advance!!!
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I purchased a Rogue RP-1 several years ago and have worked my way into the RP-9. I was pleased with the RP-1 but felt my speakersFyne F-702s—warranted a better preamp. in that price range, the RP-1 would be a good choice. I noted that “the crpthian” also mentioned an Odyssey Audio preamp. I have Odyssey Audio monobloc power amplifiers which I consider to be superb, so I suspect their preamplifier would also be a veery good option. |
I moved from the Quicksilver preamp to a design based directly on the DeHavilland Ultraverve III, which you can get used, here: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650263291-dehavilland-ultraverve-iii/ The Quicksilver was good but still to dry, clean, cool in tone. The 6SN7 tube gave me more that I liked – dimensionality, space, warmer tonality. That is how I’d focus my looking if I were you. Keep in mind how many tubes a preamp requires. The nice thing about the deHavilland is that it only has one 6SN7 tube. I’ve heard great things about the Cary and Rogue, and many also like Aric’s preamps, though they might be too expensive. There is also Erhard. Modwright is a solid brand: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650310634-modwright-swl-90-tube-linestage/ and https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650304848-modwright-swl90-ae/ The Herron is also respected: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650268318-herron-vtsp-1/ Good luck with your search. There are other brands of course – I've mentioned above what my research kept revealing as among the most well respected brands and makers. |
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