Preamp Deal of the Century

Need some more info on the Chardonnay...

1. Does anyone have a picture of it? Can you share it (or, if you prefer, send me by e-mail)? What about the remote, is there any picture avaliable?
2. The goal is to match it with a Plinius SA-102 power amp. I am concerned (since I am not able to listen to it) with how they work together. The Plinius specs are Input Sensitivity: 0.8V RMS for rated output at 1kHz. Input Impedance: 47k Ohms. Would like to have your comments on this.

Thanks!

I think Waltersalas has the same Plinius amp. If he doesn't read this, then email him.

Lisbon--

Jazzdude is correct. I have had the Plinius SA-102 in my system for the past several months now, and it sounds great with the Syrah. Previously, I had Bel Canto EVO 200.2 amps in a monoblock configuration, and while the sound was extremely good, with no real weaknesses I could identify, I still felt something was just missing--a certain "palpability" if you will. The Plinius did make a significant difference. Now the sound is richer and deeper, and yet all the finesse of the Bel Cantos is still there, too. In other words, the palpability is there, and then some. While I am far from an expert and a relative newbie compared to others here, I think the SA-102 is an excellent amp and a very nice playmate for the Supratek. Ignore the lackluster review in TAS this month and audition one for yourself if you get the chance. Email me if you have any more questions or concerns.

happy trails...

What tubes are you guys using in the phono section of your Supratek preamps? I am still using the stock tubes, but I am in the process of getting Mullard 6GK5's. I know the Western Electric 417 is supposed to be good, but they are very expensive, if you can find them. Any other suggestions?

if you still have the dynavector cartridge, i think the we 417a & mullard 6gk5 will be the best,iv'e tried the ericsson 417a,& rca 6gk5 & get too much top end playing my helikon cartridge,yet they were ok when using the koetsu rosewood,try to find cryoed mullards if possible (better through the mids)