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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
kj001
5 posts
 
Might want to look at the new Purity One from Purity Audio Design. It's been getting some great feedback, and is right around your price point.

http://www.purityaudiodesign.com/purity%20one%20preamp.htm

-KJ
salectric
683 posts
 
Emotive Sira. They appear on Audiogon frequently under $3000.

Dave
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
4,637 posts
 
Sorry to all, my post above was meant for another thread. All good preamps here and all good comments :-)
mechans
2,999 posts
 
Thanks for the info on Lightspeed. I couldn't slog thru the monster thread after about 40 posts but I get the idea. I have to read more on the electronics of LED attenuation. The technical aspects of things often eludes me. Pubul thanks for affirming that octal tubes are a great tube for an active line stage and filling in more detail re Mapletree.
In all without starting a war I love my 6SN7s even if they are not a wire from the source to the amp. Hey everyone has their preferences.
cruz123
585 posts
 
VAC pre's (and amps) are superb.
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