2. amps-preamps
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Help picking a tube preamp, please

Can you suggest a new tube preamp? This is the kind of thing I'm looking for:

-the usual goals for good dynamics and detail, quiet background, uncolored and even tonality and good imaging, but I'm especially keen on articulate bass extension. I frequently listen at lower levels, so appreciate the bass extension.
- small, fine volume-control steps via remote control. This is absolutely key for enjoyment.
- no phono input needed. Actually, only one or maybe two inputs are needed.
- budget $6-7k-ish, new or newer-used. Budgets are mere guidelines.
- must be available for an in-home demo somehow.
- emotionally I prefer point-point wiring, but execution is all that matters.
- if a preamp is sold with more shrill reissue tubes, I can fix that later with some nice NOS ones.

Connected gear: both hi-res and redbook files fed from a CAPS Zuma SoTM server computer into a Hegel HD25 DAC, said preamp into Quicksilver Silver 88 amps with some NOS input tubes and KT150 output tubes driving Sonus Faber Elipsa SE speakers, all wired up with Kimber 1026, 1126, and 6065 hybrid cabling.

Thanks much, Ralph
ralpheburns
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
7,068 posts
 
Ralph, just so you know, on our preamp (Atma-Sphere) the steps are very close together at low volume settings for more control with high output digital sources.

Regarding bass: with a patented direct coupled output the MP-1 is the king of the hill, bar none. Disclaimer: manufacturer.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,180 posts
 
Hey Ralph, have you looked at a Manley Labs Jumbo Shrimp ? It uses a very precise radio controlled volume remote called the Remora...O and by the way its a awesome sounding preamp. I use it over a McIntosh, BAT, Mod Wright, Prima Luna. I have heard all of them very intimately. The Manley is the best sounding pre amp for under $2100 used and $3600 new, that I have heard.
meles
40 posts
 
I would do the 30 day trial with the $7000 Placette Audio Active Linestage. It pretty much is the answer for your requirements. "good dynamics and detail, quiet background, uncolored and even tonality and good imaging, but I'm especially keen on articulate bass extension. I frequently listen at lower levels, so appreciate the bass extension."

The bass is simply stunning. It is unity gain so if you don't need gain in a line stage it will have a distinct advantage. http://www.stereophile.com/solidpreamps/1107pla/index.html

A friend has this and the bass is unbelievable. I recently implemented their totally passive remote volume control in my Loesch preamp and the bass improvement was stunning.

No tubes in this unit, but since it is transformer based, no solid state either.
plasmatech
77 posts
 
The Atma MP1 is for real. With vcaps, competes with anything. Also try the Calypso by Aesthetix. Calypso slightly warm of neutral...Very slightly. I own one. Considered the MP1 as well. PT
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