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Preamp recommendations up to $2000

Hi everyone. The upgrade bug has reared it's head again and I'm starting to look for a better preamp. My present system is: Audio Note CD-2, Mapletree 2A SE pre, Edge G4 amp, and GMA Pico Executive speakers. I listen to mostly classical, with some pop/rock.

I don't have the audio vocabulary some of you do, but I guess I'm looking for a more open sound with a little more presence. I also wouldn't mind if the bass was a little fuller.

Although the Mapletree is a tube preamp, I would like all suggestions, including SS.

Thanks!
xrayz
tvad
9,467 posts
 
A used Atma-Sphere MP-3 is another to consider.

If you stretch your budget to $2500, you may be able to find a used Lamm
LL2 Deluxe or First Sound Presence Deluxe II.
markwatkiss
476 posts
 
Audio Horizons TP 2.0 or 2.1
Lamm LL2
Supratek Chenin.
All used of course and yes if you could stretch that budget another $500 you'll be well rewarded.
tweak1
870 posts
 
Though they do not come up FS often, look for PS Audio GCP. I owned on for a number of years.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
I second LaPierre's suggestion for Rowland Capri as an excellent SS option. I also listen mostly to classical music and prefer Capri over ARC Ref 3 for extension, linearity, and harmonic integrity. Just 2 words of qualification. . .
1. Capri is symmetrically balanced and will ield best results in a fully balanced configuration using XLR ICs throughout the system.
2. The bass generated by Capri is deep, tuneful, has authority. . . but is not 'full', if full means yielding a euphonic emphasis of the lower octaves.

Guido
learsfool
1,206 posts
 
The PrimaLuna amps sound great, and are very user-friendly, if you want to stick to the tubes.
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