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
Clipsal

I am useing the Syrah, and not the Sauvignon. I am useing
the W.E.350B along with the Sylvania metal base 6SN7W, and the Bendix Redbank 6106 as the rectifier.

This combo has dynamics in spades, and the bass which had
been MIA with 5881's 6L6, etc... comeing from my Totem Mani II is simply amazeing. Very deep, tight, and well defined. I haven't tried the 6F6G but, the results should be simular based on what's being said about them. I have not tried them becouse Mick has not recommended useing them, If you run tubes that he says no to useing, what is that going to do to your warranty? Something to consider. He did in an e-mail tell me that 350B's are ok, just too expensive.

If you are after a more "tubelike" midrange tho, the KT-66
is a gorgeous performer here, but you will trade off some of the dynamics, and bass control that the 350, or 6F6G's (?) provide. The KT-66 along with the Tung-sol round plate is an excellant combo, especially for vocals and acoustic music.

I also like the 350B with the tung-sol round plate. You get the superior performance of the 350B, with a bit of
organic, or human touch to it, as opposed to the straight-
forward dynamics of the Sylvania's.

Sorry if my descriptions are on the weak side, I am no re-viewer by any stretch, but I am a pretty good listener tho
and I like to try and help if I can.

I would also like to add here, a VERY large thank you to Mr. Slowhand for starting this very remarkable thread. Without it I would still be listening thru mudd. Although I would have a hell of a lot more $ in my saveings account thank you very much.

And also thank you to the other Guru's, BWhite, Fiddler,
Tubegroover, etc... And the YODA of tube knowledge and info. MR. Ecclectique who have provided so much to all of us quiet types out here at no charge.

CharlieE
I can't believe audiophiles are buying preamps without auditioning them. After everything I have read on this website about letting your ears make the decision. I have to admit I am new to this hobby, and have recently purchased a pair of Heron i's. I have an amp on the way, and thought I might have picked out a preamp. I was looking at the VTL 5.5, but after reading all the positive responses to this thread I don't know if that is the right decision anymore. I quess I will send an e-mail to Mick inquring about this preamp, because if I don't I may never forgive myself. LOL.

TIM
Anybody receive their new Syrah/Chardonnay yet? If so, kindly mention the time when you ordered. I place my order for the Syrah early January(I think?). I know, not long enough yet but just want to "gauge" where I stand in the pecking order.

thanks
Jazzdude
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I think I remember that you ordered a Cabernet. Once you have everything settled and some hours on it, please let us know how it compares with the other Supratek models you have heard.

What tube compliment does it carry and what are you using in lieu of the stock tubes ?
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