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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!!!

fastcat95
rivington66's avatar
rivington66
86 posts
 

McIntosh Mx110z

hwr
21 posts
 

I love my Eastern Electric Mini Max line stage. Outstanding build quality, punches way above it's weight, stone quiet and a tube roller's dream come true. It uses the 12au7 and 6X4 tubes. I use it with a Ming-Da tube phono amp with outstanding results.

You won't find a better pre-amp for the money, (I paid 700.00 for mine used some years ago).

If you can find one, buy it, you won't be disappointed!

 

brownneil's avatar
brownneil
8 posts
 

Cary slp 90 clone from Ali express with Psvane art tubes is better than 12 preamps I’ve tested . Including rogue rp9, lta ,actual Cary pre, backert labs,vinnie Rossi ect.  
 It costs 300 then replace signal caps with z caps 

thecarpathian's avatar
thecarpathian
6,087 posts
 

@buellrider97 ,

Listen, if you ever get tired of those G73R's and want to get rid of a pair, I'll be happy to take them off your hands!😃

buellrider97's avatar
buellrider97
942 posts
 

@thecarpathian , Ha Ha on the GR’s. I bought a Rogue RP-1 and a Had Inspire in 2016. I started tube rolling and about a year later was into Telefunkens and saw ten bulk packed G-73R’s on eBay at $150 each or best offer. I offered $500 for a quad and it was accepted . In retrospect I wish I had offered less for all ten. I can’t say for sure if they are any better than the standard smooth plates or even the Tektronix as I have those too. But they are definitely quiet and I put 5 years at 10 hrs every day before they started making any noise. It was definitely money well spent. Cheers , Mike B. 

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