Budget Preamps for Atmaspheres?

You should be looking for a true balanced pre-amp, such as an ARC LS3B. I picked up an Audio Experience Balanced line stage (circa $1000, new) for about $600 used (less than one year old), for my M60's. It uses TWO volume controls, however, one for each channel, which makes for a bit of a hassle, especially in a darkened room. I just LOVE the sound, though. You get to swap tubes if you like (2-12AT7's and 2-12AU7's) to experiment a bit and the price is very reasonable considering the excellant build quality and sound level achieved. Of course, if you can afford it, Atma-Sphere also makes some absolutely fantastic preamps too. Make sure that your looking at fully balanced designs, whatever you should choose. Happy Listening.

Atma-sphere ONLY preamp with any Atma-sphere amp...and run balanced I/C's. 'Nuff sais :-)

Atma-Sphere or Aesthetix would be nice. I agree about using a fully balanced architecture in the pre regardless with the Atma’s…
Happy Listening!