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Once again...looking for a "tube like" SS preamp

Hi

I am looking for a solid state preamp that has the fatigue free sonic signature of a tube preamp. For reasons that will completely bore everyone out there, my setup makes it difficult to get a tube preamp like the Aesthetix or VTL which I absolutely love.

Source is a Bryston BDA-1 DAC. Amplification is Jeff Rowland 501 mono blocks. Speakers are Tannoy Kensingtons. I am considering between the Bryston BP26 (matches the source) and Jeff Rowland Capri (matches the source). I would love to hear from people who have had experience with either of these two models on how the sound compares with tube gear. Also, should I be considering any other models in the $5k +/- range that would fit best what I am looking for?

Thanks.
lp_newbie
pani
1,049 posts
 
How about Accuphase ? How about McIntosh ? Another good one would be TRL (Transistor Research Labs).
I have tried Plinius preamps and they dont sound like tubes at all. Their amps do have a sound closer to tubes though.
rdavwhitaker
173 posts
 
Best SS I've encountered for tube-like sound is Conrad Johnson. Any of their SS preamps will have the SS version of the "CJ" sound. I've owned two different models, and both were good performers.
orpheus10
5,988 posts
 
Conrad Johnson, and Audio Research SS, sound like SS; and not particularly good SS.
orpheus10
5,988 posts
 
I feel it necessary to qualify my last post. I auditioned SS pre's by CJ and ARC. While I'm a big fan of their tube gear, the SS was "clinical". I think I'm allergic to SS preamps, and maybe I should not have posted.
shay123
72 posts
 
Try a Dynaco pas 2,3, or 3x. They are cheap and have great tube sound. If u dont like it u can always sell it. Mcintosh solid state equipment sounds tubey also. It is about the closest I have found to tube sound. Of course Mcintosh tube equipment is no slouch either, that is why it commands such a high price on the used market.
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