I have Rogue Audio RP-1 (~$1.6k) running Mullards, Wadia DAC , PSA S300, Focal 926s . I like the Rogue its been a good piece. Has a respectable phono stage. The company is good to work with as well , they answer the phone and return calls. Only knock is the plastic remote. Here is the Stereophile review https://www.stereophile.com/content/rogue-audio-rp-1-preamplifier
HELP!!! I need a “GOOD-CHEAP” preamp solution???
I would appreciate the community’s thoughts about replacing my NAD C356 BEE integrated amp (it’s being used as my preamp) in my modest but nice sounding 2 channel audio system. Why replace the NAD? The remote no longer talks to the amp, I’ve already replaced the large pc board ($275) and it’s running hot with a dark brown spot on the blue pc board. Scary.
Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.
The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs.
Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???
Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.
The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs.
Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???
Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
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- 64 posts total
I ignore the fuse in my Schiit Freya as I think magic fuse myths are utter inexplicable baloney touted by shills and wishful thinkers ( I tested some highly touted Special Fuses to see if they were better, and they not only aren't, but the ones I tested showed they're sometimes dangerously inaccurately rated). I'm not sure what sort of fuse came with the Freya, but it manages to stay out of the way of the sonics of the thing just fine. |
Unlike the cave man wolf, I have installed magic fuses in my Schitt SYS. Since it is a passive unit there was no fuse holder, so I superglued it to the side of the case. Unfortunately, geoff convinced me that it was in the wrong direction and I broke it breaking it loose with a screwdriver. However, I have now superglued both halves in the same direction, so I am fairly certain that at least one half is now directionally correct. |
wolf_garcia" I think magic fuse myths are utter inexplicable baloney touted by shills and wishful thinkers I think those who consistently, repeatedly, and seemingly endlessly prattle away that magic and myths explain the reports, experience, and findings of others are themselves consumed with legend, fiction, and voodoo make-believe and that they satisfy, comfort, and attempt to heal they're confusion, disorientation, and ignorance in a cloak of science of which they do not possess, understand, or comprehend. |
- 64 posts total