2. amps-preamps
  3. 983584190

tube preamp with satisfying low end?

Hi:

Just spend the afternoon auditioning a couple of pre-amps. The VTL TL2.5 and the Adcom GFP-750 on Magnepan 1.6 speakers and a Bryston SB-3T Amp. Overall impression was that I love the VTL warmth and bloom on the mid range and high end. However, felt that it was definately lacking in the lower midrange and bass. Adcom had much better overall dynamic range and clarity, however it had that digital edge to it that can be a bit fatiquing. Am looking for a preamp that has the "glow" of the VTL in the mid and upper ranges but has better low end. Any suggestions? My budget is no more than $2000 - new or used.
sibelius
michaelm704
41 posts
 
Sibelius, I think this is an easy one - the BAT VK-5i. Plenty on the 'gon used for around $2k. Luscious midrange and delicate highs with great, I mean great bass. I personally decided to kick it another notch and went for the BAT VK-30 since my budget allowed for it, and I love it.
gasman
42 posts
 
I would also give serious consideration to the Joule-Electra LA-100 MkIII (w/remote); the bass response of this unit is exceptional, and the midrange is even better. A preamp for lovers of music.
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
I experienced similar dissatisfaction with the VTL 2.5 & even the 5.5. However the Adcom (I've never heard one) is Stereophile class A isn't it? Was it warmed up thoroughly Sib? I mean powered on for at least a full day? If not that could explain the grain.
Regarding the BAT: I'm very curious to try one, but I do have one question? Does anyone know the "step-size" of the volume control's step-attenuator? If it is in 2dB steps then that's much too coarse. If only 1dB or even 0.5dB steps, then that would be worth my trying.
sibelius OP
256 posts
 
Bob, I know that the Adcom is a Sterophile Class A, but my ears were not swayed. I think it a great solid state Pre-amp. However, I think that I have been bitten by the "tube bug" and will have problems accepting anything other than a tube pre-amp. I'm trying to get greedy by having the best qualities of tubes (the warmth and for lack of a better word "musicality")with the dynamic range and solid bass of good solid state. This may be something that just does not exist in my price range. However, can't hurt to ask.
sedond
1,314 posts
 
melos ma-333/music director - $1500-$2k, depending on exact model/features. outstanding bass response, wery detailed & accurate, but definitely that warm toob glow & bloom. also nice is the cary slp98 - i wooda been wery content w/it if i hadn't heard the melos... ;~)
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