2. amps-preamps
  3. 1350204237

$18k Tube preamp for large scale symphonies please

hi, can anyone suggest tube preamp that's good for handling complex music & large scale symphonies recordings in studio/ theatres? i had audition some: Aesthetix, CJ ,Modwright, Audio Note, ARC but all seems lacking in some ways and definitely not enough air at top octaves and instruments separation/ spaciousness. all dealer agrees that some pre is good at certain genre of music and sound Great even more if music is relatively SIMPLE like vocal, jazz, light acoustic, slow rock and maybe pop songs. Yes i know personal taste varies as well: bass strength & high freq. extension etc. & gears matching too. could anyone share their expreience so i can narrow down a list? my music typically: Van Hellsing & Princess Mononoke movie soundtrack. hope dealers provide constructive comments. Thanks All in advance. -phil
philipwu
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
6,996 posts
 
Phillip.
One point I should mention is the the Coincident can be ordered with either 10 or 20 db of gain. I initially had the 20db gain version which was too much(my amplifiers are sensitive,0.7v, also speakers are 94 db sensitive/1 watt). I exchanged for the 10 db unit and it`s a perfect fit,just something to keep in mind depending on what amplifier you select.
Regards,
gregm
3,021 posts
 
Philip
has anyone thought of VTL, CAT legend & Joule electra?
I have listened to the latter 2 (not the big VTL)
In brief: the Joule offers angelic details -- i.e. the & upper mids and high frequencies are detailed and perceptible, but not harsh.
The CAT has serious dynamics and accuracy in reproducing instruments timbre. Driving a big YBA Passion stereo, I enjoyed the music a lot. Can't say that details were lacking either, but I wasn't really focusing on the frequency reproduction.
By the way, since the Symphonic Line was mentioned: the combination of a CAT (Ultimate this time) and a pair of SL monos gave EXPLOSIVE, phantasmagorical musical results! A joyful experience. (Unfortunately, I don't have this combo -- can't afford it!)
philipwu OP
204 posts
 
has anyone heard a Purity Audio Design preamp Silver transformer series? thanks
audiotomb's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
audiotomb
1,059 posts
 
I second the Doshi Alaalp

It's presentation is beyond reproach

Very good resolution of instruments and dynamics

You did not mention if you have an analog source, Nick's preamp stage is incredible
ilidra
21 posts
 
Emotive Audio Epifania or Sira
More to discover