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Best Preamp for under $1750.00

Seeking recommendations for a preamp in the $750 to $1750 range. Balance of system consists of Aerial 8's, Bryston 7B's, and CAL CL-15. Room acoustics and speakers would favour lean over lush; I'm looking for something musical without being on the "warm" side. Music preferences include acoustic, jazz, and rock. Will re-cable according to final selections
emmett
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
4,163 posts
 
You might be able to find a used Pass Aleph P. I would describe it as a well built, neutral sounding preamp. The only downside is that it doesn't have a true tape monitor loop. Typically priced between $1,400 and $1,600.
dekay's avatar
dekay
2,959 posts
 
What is the name of the popular passive preamp that sells for around $1500.00?
slowhand
605 posts
 
I agree with Rogerroger, I have had an Audible Illusions M3A in my system for the last 4 years and I have absolutely no desire to replace it. It is a wonderful sounding preamp and has a very neutral sound, not tubey. I have used it with a Bryston 4B NRB amp with great results.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
The best preamp is no preamp. If you can arrange your system around it a passive preamp is the way to go, but there are giant sacrifices to be made along the line to get there.
dekay's avatar
dekay
2,959 posts
 
Placette is the manufacturer that I was thinking of in my above post. I have no experience with them, but have been curious as to how one would pair with an SET amp (only to add switching capability). I have read that they add very little sonic character of their own (which might be a good thing if you have a good source and power amp).
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