2. amps-preamps
  3. 1154005476

I need help choosing my next tube preamp.

Although I really enjoyed usnig my ARC LS-15 preamp since I bought it brand new several years ago, I'm looking to upgrade it.

I'd like to stay with tube preamps only.

I like experimenting with different tubes, so the new preamp should probably not be based on the new 6H30 supertube.

Qualities I'm looking for in my next preamp - it should have a pretty laid back(more so than the LS-15) but dynamic character, with plenty of detail, but not be hyper detailed, should have good definition in the bass region(deep, tight bass, not bloaty), full sounding mids and produce a wide and deep soundstage.
Also, it should have a high resolution volume control with plenty of steps to provide ability to fine tune volume for late night low-level listening.

Primary source in my system is digital. No analog as of yet.

The candidate preamps are:
ARC LS-25 MkI,
BAT VK-31,
Sonic Frontiers Line-3
Aesthetix Calypso

I'm pretty much open to other tube preamp suggestions, as long as it is from a well known manufacturer and is not known to have reliability issues.

I listen to different types of music. Classical, traditional and modern jazz, blues and rock.

Really looking for your expert opinion. And if someone who has any experience with the mentioned preamps can share their thoughts, it would be great!

Thanks a lot!!!!
128x128audphile1
audphile1's avatar
audphile1 OP
4,412 posts
 
Stevecham, thanks for the CJ suggestion.
jond's avatar
jond
5,706 posts
 
Though not a household brand name I would highly recommend checking out the custom made preamps by Deja Vu Audio in Mclean, Virginia. I borrowed one of their amps when I took my amp to them for some repairs and it was so much better than mine I never gave it back! I later picked up a preamp that thoroughly improved upon the performance of my Herron VTSP-1A. I was surprised because I really liked the herron but there was no comparison, the music was much more direct and alive. Though not a major manufacturer they have been around forever and don't look to be going anywhere. They are one of the most respected dealers in the country for tubes and vinyl, keep an open mind and give them a call, Google their name for their website and contact info. Happy listening!
boa2's avatar
boa2
1,551 posts
 
it should have a pretty laid back(more so than the LS-15) but dynamic character, with plenty of detail, but not be hyper detailed, should have good definition in the bass region(deep, tight bass, not bloaty), full sounding mids and produce a wide and deep soundstage.
You're describing the Lamm LL2. Read the reviews, as they accurately describe the "sound" of this preamp. I've tried it in at least six different systems, always with the same result: you hear more music, less componentry. I've heard the BAT and the Aesthetix, which are both excellent, but don't fit your stated requirements, in my opinion.
jwpstayman
391 posts
 
Hi Audphile1 - maybe I can help a bit. The BAT and the Calypso are both built around that 6H30 tube, so the sound you get from the factory is pretty much IT - and both of them sound ruler flat and grainless, but neither has the harmonic warmth of tubes. If that is what you are looking for - I suggest that you spend some time researching VAC pre-amps from Florida. They have ALL the desirable features ( XLR and RCA outputs (both live), optional MC tube phono stage,home theater pass thru, and remote control. Add to that a 100K input impedence with an under 300 ohm output impedence and the basic tiny triode design flawlessly executed by Kevin Hayes at VAC, and you have the best tube pre-amp on the market, IMO. Musicality, flexibility, reliability, and some of the best looking pre-amps in production all will lead you to the same conclusion.
westborn
148 posts
 
Joule Electra
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