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Tube Preamps...I'm sold

At the constant urging of my friend I finally decided to audition a tube preamp (Eistein The Tube). All I can say is I am completely sold on the benefits of tubes in my system. I am not sure I have the vocabulary to describe what I heard but everything just sounded right. Vocals has a realism that made it seem I was in the same room as the musician. Instruments sounded like they were supposed to. There were details I have never heard before. What is amazing to me is that I have what I believe to be a pretty good ss preamp (Classe CP-700).

Ok, now for the hard part...finding the right tube preamp. The Einstein is amazing but I want to audition more. Can anyone suggest a tube pre in the range of $10K and less? I would love to some one with an output trigger and very fine volume control (0.5db). Thats all I need.

Thanks in advance.
128x128tboooe
essentialaudio
1,147 posts
 
Tboooe, you are ruined :-) You will come back to The Tube. Nothing else with the features you mention even comes close.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
1,368 posts
 
Try Audio Research Ref-3 or you can try the previous ARC REF-2 Mk2 used for less than a price of a new Calypso.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Try a ARC Ref 3 or wait for the new BAT VK-32/52 series to be revealed at the CES in another week. The Calypso is also a good recommendation, though not quite as quiet as the BAT or the ARC, it is unbeatable at it's price, me thinks.
swampwalker's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
VAC Ren Mk 2 new at about $2K less than the Einstein. It has a great remote. Occasionally available used. Only pres I have heard it used against were Calypso and Lamm LL2. Smoked them both, but of course its 2-3X price.
trcnetmsncom
431 posts
 
Hi Tboooe,

I would seriously consider the new BAT VK-52se at that price level. Also, when your funds allow you have the option of upgrading the 52se to the REX without having to sell the 52se.

Good luck,
Tom
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