Top ten tube preamps

IMO/IME when you go for synergy its one coloration counteracting another- not a good way to go if you really want neutrality. I recommend choosing equipment on its strengths, if that makes any sense.

So far IME I’ve found a great preamp will mate well with many amps. Tube or Ss. MOS FET or Bipolar output devices. Push pull tubes in ultralinear, and Hybrids.

If where the volume knob rests when in use is a consideration for you, some further investigations might be necessary though.

In many matches, my preamp volume knob never gets past noon o’clock. Usually residing somewhere between 9-11. it has a lot of gain, in the area of 20-23 db.

For myself though it’s no big deal… the sound and infulence it has on the music however, is indeed.

Good luck.

Exactly- that is what I find too.

I agree with Pabul57, listing your biggest disappointment would be more useful, but most will be reluctant to do it.

i'd go with ARC/CJ