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Another tube preamp "What should I buy" question.

I’m looking for a preamp to last me for the next 20 years - a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend big. Have a Holo Spring DAC, and will never have a turntable so linestage only. It’s to feed a Michi S5 power amp, into a pair of Cornwalls.

I’m close to pushing the button on a McIntosh MC2700. But why not the Prima Luna Evo 400 Pre? Or (and this is a wildcard) a Leben preamp? Love the idea of a Manley Neo Classic 300B but am concerned of reports of hum that the Cornwalls would only accentuate.

I know this kind of question has been asked many times before on this forum, but what’s the current view? Does anyone have an informed opinion one way or the other?

rowester
rowester's avatar
rowester OP
3 posts
 

Hey everyone - OP back again.

Thank you for your suggestions - I followed up all of the preamps suggested and explored as best I could their pros and cons. 

Happy to advise that today I paid the deposit on an Aric Motherlode XL. There's a wait for it to be built, and there's a bit (a lot!) of expense involved in shipping it to me in Australia, but I'm sure it'll be worth it when it arrives.

The Motherlode would not possibly have landed on my list were it not for the folk on this forum so thank you for drawing my attention to Aric, and his extraordinary products.

Now for a few months of delicious anticipation!!

dseltz
225 posts
 

Congratulations!  I am so satisfied with the ML XL. It is my end game preamp. Wishing you many years of enjoyment with it. Can I recommend Ken-Rad VT 231 (6SN7) tubes.  In my system they are magic. 

vthokie83
1,222 posts
 

Congratulations rowester on your decision, let us know how things go once it arrives.

gotolondon2
38 posts
 

Congratulations!

Happy for you mate.

surd9
1 posts
 

Did you consider the Audio Cary SLP-05?

I am in a similar situation looking for a long term preamp. My system is currently comprised of Gustard R30->Anthem AVM90->Simaudio Moon W10->Aerial Acoustics 20Tv2s and have an issue with the upper end sounding a bit clinical and harsh. AI has suggested that the SLP-05 would be a top contender and Rhumba Extreme 1.4, Motherlode XL and PL400EVO are also great contenders.

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