2. amps-preamps
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$3500 to spend on a tube preamp....ideas?

Suggestions? Amps are Herron M1 monoblocks, Speakers Von Schweikert VR4-JR's. I borrowed a McIntosh C2300, and while it was good, it wasn't THAT much better than my Modwright 9.0 Signature. Bass was a little deeper, soundstage a bit more open, instruments more focused, but again, probably not worth $3500 to upgrade to. Also had an LS26 from ARC in my system, again, similar performance level to the C2300 and slightly more dynamic than the Modwright. With $3500 to spend, is there anything that can get me to that next level in dynamics? I am really happy with the other hardware in my system.

ideas: Herron VTSP3a, Rogue Athena
VAC Standard LE, Modwright LS36.5, Conrad Johnson Premier LS 16II, Dehavilland Mercury 3:

other options?
chiho
sonnyyoung
22 posts
 
Demo an Audible Illusions preamp.
salevick
67 posts
 
My recommendation is to audition the Audio Horizons. I tried several pres with higher and lower prices and happily bought the Audio Horizons pre totally tricked out. I have no regrets. Hope this helps. Steve
davt
499 posts
 
If you can find one the Herron VTSP-3A is a steller line stage. Should work well with the M1's. It would be tough to find one used at your price though.
fiddler
581 posts
 
Save yourself $3,000 and buy a Lightspeed for $500. It has replaced preamps costing several times more than the preamps you are considering. It is amazing regardless of price.
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
581 posts
 
I have the Dude, have heard the VSTP-3A, and had a tricked out Audio Horizons. All three are great preamps and great options. I am very, very happy with my Dude, and have the Herron VTPH-2 phono stage, which is just tremendous.

Honestly, I think you can't go wrong with any of these, but I can tell you that the Dude/Herron combo platter is here to stay in my system.
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