Tube Pre-Amp Upgrade Advice for Young Audiophile

The DJH signature version is a big step up in transparency and dynamics, even from a modded AE-3 which I sold. Agree wtih the Sylvania suggestion as well. I bought mine used for around 800-850 on Audiogon.

If you listen to an Audible Illusions pre-amp you ill choose it.

The Audible Illusions pre is very good and an extremely good bargain. I had one until I upgraded to a Supratek, and I loved it in my system. I chose it over the Rogue, which was the runner-up for me in this price range. The Supratek is on another level, but it is also more expensive.

The Audible Illusions does everything well and has a terrific phono stage to boot. In the interest of full disclosure, I should report that I have one for sell in the classifieds. However, whether you buy this one, another one, or something else altogether, try to give the Mod 3 a listen before making a decision.

happy listening and good luck--

Squiddy, so far as ARC goes, look for an SP-6 or an SP-8 600-900 used. For a bit more, which may be out of your budget but you can still find older ones at 1100-1200 used, don't rule out the CAT. Any of their models are great full function pre-amps. CJ are ok but the cheaper models are too rolled off at the frequency extremes and a bit darker and bloomier that the above mentioned. Then again you may prefer this initially but long term you'll probably want more.

My first TUbe PRe was a CJ PV-10AL.
SInce you said you are looking for something that is more transparent, I would have to suggest that you NOT buy a CJ-PV10 model. They sound ravishing, but transparent is not a word I would use to describe them.

Maybe a PV-11/12/14, but still, the CJ house sound is still a tad on the warm side.

What about a Passive Pre/assuming your source can push?

Also, consider the Adcom unit (yeah, I know, Audiophile bias) that is/was a recommended component in S'phile. I've actually heard it, and it is clean and clear, and is switchable between active and passive.

True, the Audible Illusions PRe is probably EXACTLY the sound that you'd like, but see threads re: dealing with repairs/parts etc. SLOOOOOOW.

I use Rogue. I like Rogue, but I think the 99 is a big step up from the 66, and the 99 is out of your range.

MY suggestion is to consider further UPGRADES TO YOUR CARY PIECE.

HOWEVER))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

IT sounds to me (I've been there more times than I'll admit) like you're absolutely jonzeing for an upgrade.

THis shit is addictive, no doubt about it.
But you could probably keep what you've got, change some tubes or power cords or cables, OR MAYBE JUST CLEAN THE CONNECTIONS REALLY WELL, and get a HUGE reward.

But then again, it sure does feel good dropping some $$$ on a new toy.

Good luck!!!