Preamp recommendations up to $2000

It's too bad the Dodd does not have a tape loop. It'd open up the possibilities to more buyers. 200 ohms output impedance is a good spec for use with low impedance solid state amps.

The Juicy Music Peach has a tape loop, and a Lo Z (80 ohm) output impedance option. Two reasons I chose to give it a try.

If Gary's preamp had a tape loop, I'd likely have tried it long ago.

There a Modwright with Tube recitfier and upgraded caps for $1700 here. That's a excellent preamp for that $$
No association. I own a Modwright and a Supratek . They do sound different but one is not really better than the other.
One needs to be sold soon, but the market here is pretty bad and if you have the bucks nows the time to find some great deals.

Tvad,

When will you get the Juicy Music?

I know i said I was leaning toward tubes, but does anyone have any experience with the Blue Circle BC 103 or CJ Premier 18LS? Thanks.

Juicy Music Peach was received today and installed. Really fun preamp! Very quiet.

It has two output impedance settings: SuperLo Z (90 ohms) for use with low input impedance amps (typically SS), and HiZ (3500 ohms) for use with typical tube amps. I find myself using SuperLo Z with my Pass Labs amps that have fairly low input impedance specs.

The HiZ mode reminds me of triode mode on an amp that has both triode and pentode modes; it has a wide image with lots of air and a touch of softness. The SuperLo Z mode would be analogous to pentode mode: a bit more punch, and a slightly deeper yet narrower image. I can definitely see where the HiZ mode could be preferable in a system with tube amps because of the very natural presentation of the music.

Lots of toe tapping going on here at Chez Tvad.