Cary Preamps

I second the SLP-98. I just bought one and have had no problems with it. I own a few Cary components and find them to be high quality. The suggestion for AES is a good one. Also, these are rare, but the N.E.W. P-3 is a consideration. I traded mine in to a dealer when I bought the SLP-98, so I know where one exists if you're interested. It would probably cost less than $500. Cary built the P-3 for N.E.W. (a company now defunct) which resembles an AES DJH and Cary SLP-50. According to a conversation I had with Dennis Had, he got a lot of mileage out of that preamp design. For $150 Cary will upgrade the unit to accept 6CG7 tubes. According to Dennis this will make the preamp scream. I owned the preamp for several years and it was very reliable and sounded great. Original price on it was $1650 (circa 1997) so it was no slouch.

I'd consider some of the other Cary preamps as well. The SLP-88 seems to be in your price range and is the predecessor to the SLP-94 and SLP-98. A couple on here now.

Good luck with the search.

Linnlp12,

What brand of teflon caps did you install? Also, what tubes are you using?

A nice preamp in your price range is the Cary SLP50A. I use one I purchased on Audiogon with the Jenson copper/oil caps and remote. Add RCA 6CG7 tubes. Very nice IMHO. Under $700.00. The Agon member I purchased the preamp said it was as good as the Cary SLP98 he purchased. That would be a matter of opinion.
Good luck!

The Tube Audio Designs, TAD-150 is nice. Between 600 - 800 new! I tried one before I bought my FS. It really is great bang for the buck. Paul at Bizzy Bee offers money back (minus shipping) if you don't like it. At least he used to.

good luck

Not to add to your list but...

The Eastern Electric Minimax is an exceptional pre and be had new in your price range. On A'gon, it can be had for $500-$600.

Regards,

PS - Cary/AES make fine products.