2. amps-preamps
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Tubed preamp suggestions?

Well I've finally decided to sell my Supratek Syrah. I loved it but the phono stage just wasn't for me. My AT 440ml MM was overloading it and I'm just not commited enough to vinyl for that good of a phono stage. The plan now is to get a nice tubed linestage and pair it with a high quality outboard phono stage that offers both mm and mc inputs. That would work with my current cartridge and allow for future upgrades. Some units I'm considering are the Joule Electra LA-100 MKIII and the Herron VTSP1A. They both sound appealing to me, the preamp will be paired with my Cary 300B Signature monos and Alon Lotus speakers. Either one of these linestages better, or better with my setup? Any others that I should be considering. This seems as if it's going to be a slow process since I can't seem to get any sellers respond to questions or potential offers! It's really strange, I've emailed 4 different people and have yet to get a single response. Ah well, it just gives me more time to ponder and solicit some opinions from you guys. Let 'em fly! And happy new year to everyone!!
128x128jond
joman
167 posts
 
I would also suggest looking at the BAT line of preamps. Swampwalker went from a 3i to the Supratek, you might ping him and get his perspective as well.
samac's avatar
samac
419 posts
 
Hi Jond....................................

I hope all is well. You know what I'm going to recommend. The deHavilland UltraVerve or their new Mercury.

Resolution, tone, dynamics, it's all there. Plus excellent build quality. Things you are used to from the Supratek I'm sure. Kara and George at deHavilland are great. Customer service and support are outstanding

Well, good luck and keep us posted as to what you decide on.

Cheers
metralla
945 posts
 
If the cartridge was overloading it, you could try a lower output moving magnet.

What's the cost effectiveness of the move you are considering? Will selling the Supratek raise enough money to finance the other two items?

Regards,
jond's avatar
jond OP
3,400 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses. To answer Metralla I think I can finance the two items by selling my Supratek. I thinking a Joule or Herron linestage for under $2K and a Camelot Lancelot Pro phono stage for $4-500 and I'm all set. Perhaps not quite the phono performance of the Supratek but pretty good and pretty versatile components that I can use with mm or mc.
mikesinger
572 posts
 
the bat gear is pretty nice...lots of options..phono, remote, upgrades etc...built like a tank and very nice sonics..
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