2. amps-preamps
  3. 1016931418

Preamp Deal of the Century

If anyone is looking for a true "World Class" preamp at a very fair price..heed my advice. I just recieved a Supratek Syrah preamp that was hand built by Mick Maloney in Western Australia, and it is absolutely beautiful! This preamp is the best deal you will ever find. I would put it up against any preamp out there for both looks and sound. Price? $2500 for the Syrah (includes Killer Phono stage). Not into phono? Try the Chardonney line stage for $2100. Don't get me wrong, I am not associated with this company. I am just a very happy owner! This preamp is VERY dynamic, yet liquid. It conveys the sound of music better than any other preamp that I have ever heard! You can check out the Supratek website at www. cantech.net.au
slowhand
ecclectique
509 posts
 
Hey Rabelais. A very appropriate analogy and very well said sir. Phase splitters are antiquated, inappropriate and should never even be considered part of the equation in the design of high resolution vacuum tubed circuits.
ethifi
75 posts
 
Hey Ecclectique, thanks for your information.
Hey guys, I need your advice.
My current system is Marantz SA-14 ver 2 SACD player, Supratek Chardonnay preamp (arriving this week), Perreaux E220 SS amp, Mirage M7si speakers. My music preferences are vocals (Eva Cassidy, Mary Black, Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Aaron Neville, etc), jazz (Dave Brubeck Quartet, LA4, Ray Brown Trio, guitar, etc) and some classical. Room size: 10 x 10 x 9 feet high. Right side has an opening, leading to the dining room of 15 x 10 x 9 feet high. I am contemplating to change either my amp or speakers over the next 6-12 months, after I've saved enough.
Question is: which one (amp or speakers) should I change first that will make the greater impact to the sound? I'm leaning towards a tube amp although many audiogoners have suggested that speakers make the most difference. Budget $3500. Thanks.
swampwalker's avatar
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swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
I'm not familiar with your amp, but the speakers are definately not up to the level of your pre and source electronics.
slowhand OP
605 posts
 
Have you guys heard that Mick is working on a Tube DAC. If Mick is on the case, there may be hope for CD's yet.
ethifi
75 posts
 
Hi Swampwalker, thanks for your comments.
Frankly, I thought so too... that's why I decided to upgrade all my components. I can't wait to change everything in one go but there are other considerations in life other than audio, although it's my second love after my wife and children. Over the past 18 months, I've patiently changed my CD player, preamp and cables (to Audience PowerChord and AU24 system-wide). I'll eventually change my amp and speakers too but I only have one chance with each because of WAF and $$$! After the upgrades, I would have to wait a few more years before bringing up the upgrade subject to my other half. While waiting, I would just have fun and enjoy what I have and could affford. Hehehe...
Please recommend matching speakers and amp (preferably tube) that would go well with the rest of my other components?
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