2. amps-preamps
  3. 1133029129

Pre-Amp Reliability -- 4th time mine has conked

Arrrrghh ... My PSE Studio SL pre-amp just conked out for the fourth time in 15 years. PSE has always been nice enough to fix it at no cost to me -- even after the warranty long expired -- but it's still a big annoyance having to send it out, wait weeks for it to come back, etc.

Couple of questions for the board: (1) Based on the history I've mentioned above, is my reliability less than average for a pre-amp ?, and (2) If so, what would be a good recommendation for a replacement ? I'm running a pair of Vandersteen 3a Signatures and a pair of Vandersteen 2Wq subwoofers. If I have to replace the pre-amp, I will probably replace amps (two PSE Mk V monoblocks) as well, so amp recommendations would also be appreciated. Looking for sonic quality -- and reliability !!!

Thanks very much for your help.
bothrops1b81
rhljazz
1,117 posts
 
Classe DR5 no repairs in 16yrs. Audio Research and VAC preamps have required no repairs either. I think 4 breakdowns in 15 yrs is excessive.
aball
1,994 posts
 
I too think 4x in 15 yrs is excessive. I second the McIntosh idea!
swampwalker's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
Maybe I should clarify. I said not outrageous, but certainly not what should be expected.
lateguestsnomore
50 posts
 
I had a Berning TF-12 pre-amp that had to go back to Berning four times in four years. I sold it and purchased Klyne System 7 (pre and phono). I've had them for 6 years and have not had any problems. I agree. Stan Klyne makes excellent stuff. (Too bad nobody knows about him!)
Also, I have had a Plasma pre-amp by NAT Audio for almost two years with no need for any interventions. It has 16 tubes and sounds excellent (too bad nobody knows about them either).

whoaru99
98 posts
 
I have several pieces of gear that are 15-22 years old and these have never needed repair. They're not even "audiophile" grade, just some lowly Yamaha stuff. Oh, I almost forgot, the Levinson No. 23 is getting on in years too with no problems.
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