Hello Jason & Sean
The AGI 511 and AGI 511A was surely a great preamp from the hands of a man named Dave Spiegel. I use to truly admire the dedication this guy had to produce the best sound possible. I live about 10 miles from the old production facility in Willow Grove, PA. This thing had the best circuit board that a 1976 product could have. It was built right with one goal in mind; Flawless sound. While the stock unit was smooth sounding for a SS preamp and reasonably free of any distortion, the problem was in the 3D illusion department. Now, I am sure, that the basic sound of this unit was good enough to, when modified,with better parts, overcome the slight ambience reduction. Can you imagine though, a Spectral type of build quality for $400.00!!! Thats all this puppy cost. The chassis was top grade stainless steel. This was the time when being an audiophile was really great. Alas I dont know what became of Dave, but the guy was an engineer that was mighty capable. Wish he would reappear on the scene.....Frank
The AGI 511 and AGI 511A was surely a great preamp from the hands of a man named Dave Spiegel. I use to truly admire the dedication this guy had to produce the best sound possible. I live about 10 miles from the old production facility in Willow Grove, PA. This thing had the best circuit board that a 1976 product could have. It was built right with one goal in mind; Flawless sound. While the stock unit was smooth sounding for a SS preamp and reasonably free of any distortion, the problem was in the 3D illusion department. Now, I am sure, that the basic sound of this unit was good enough to, when modified,with better parts, overcome the slight ambience reduction. Can you imagine though, a Spectral type of build quality for $400.00!!! Thats all this puppy cost. The chassis was top grade stainless steel. This was the time when being an audiophile was really great. Alas I dont know what became of Dave, but the guy was an engineer that was mighty capable. Wish he would reappear on the scene.....Frank