2. amps-preamps
  3. 1273788735

Under $10k budget Preamp suggestion, please.

I'm upgrading my system and considering next preamp right now in this budget. If possible, I'd like to find ones having retail price around $5-8k. Here's my setup

Transport: Hiend music server using Digital balanced + Superclock as master
D/A: Esoteric D-05 slave to transport
Pre: Considering here.....
Power: Spectral DMA 180 (May change later)
Speaker: Rockport Ankaa

I'm considering Karan KA L at the moment since I couldn't think of better alternatives right now. I feel my system needs a bit more lower frequency for suitable tonal balance because D-05 has inferior bass comparing to Alpha DAC which almost fits in my system.
windowsx
tvad
9,467 posts
 
What is the input impedance of the Spectral DMA?
Foster_9 (Threads | Answers)
100K ohms. No issues with matching, including tube preamps.
lokie's avatar
lokie
511 posts
 
First Sound and VTL 7.5II.
shredder's avatar
shredder
93 posts
 
Cary SLP-05 and Modwright 36.5 are both outstanding. I have the Cary and it was a great purchase.
kurt_tank
1,188 posts
 
How about a little more information about your system, and your requirements?
Such as:

Do you require a full function preamp, or merely a line stage preamp? (i.e. do you need a phono stage?)

Do you need a remote control?
(And if so, can you live with a minimal remote, (i.e only control volume and mute), or do you want it to handle everything?)

Do want it to be a fully balanced design?
(i.e. do you use XLR cables?)

Do you have a preference between Solid State or Tube?

By narrowing this down for us, it will help us make a more informed recommendation for you.
sounds_real_audio
677 posts
 

You probably should have gone with those Verity Audio speakers with the rear woofers. That would have hyped up the bass quit a bit.
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