Tillerman Posted September 4, 2003 Share Posted September 4, 2003 I have searched the archives and did not find an answer to my question, so here it is: I am looking for suggestions for an active preamp with the following features: - low gain, say 10-12 dB or less. - 2 pair of outputs (mandatory, as I don't want to use a Y connector) - tube or SS - at least 3 inputs - quality sound (obviously) - used (< than $500) or new (< than $1,000). - phono stage not needed. - remote optional. Thanks, Scott Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mobile homeless Posted September 4, 2003 Share Posted September 4, 2003 After looking at your requirments, I think the 6SN7 based Wright Sound WLA-12a preamp fits almost all the qualifications. It has two pairs of outputs, switchable gain on the unit with a low of 12dB. It employs tube rectification and can be customized by George Wright for additional needs. It has a stereo/mono/reversal switch too, another rarity. I have heard this unit more than a few times in several systems and say it's an EXCELLENT deal either new or used. You see it pop up used on Audiogon for around $550-600 (new around $800). I rank it as a VERY relaxed, natural, detailed, open sounding preamp. Tubes: 2 x 6SN7, 1 x 6EM7, 1 x 6X5 Frequency Response: Better than 20 Hz to 20 kHz , plus/ minus 1 dB Very Linear 6SN7 voltage and driver stages Distortion: Less than 0.4 percent total harmonic distortion Input Impedance: 100 kOhms, nominal Output Impedance: 2 kOhms, nominal; will drive loads 600 ohms Voltage Gain: 12 to 20dB, switchable on back Noble Audio Mastering pots Hovland Musicaps© in line stage Worldwide voltage switch Tube rectifier and regulation for truly quiet operation Output Level: 1 volt PP nominal; will drive up to 20 volts PP Stereo-mono-stereo reverse switch Output level control: 0 dB to - 10 dB, plus Full Mute Tape record and playback compatible Weight: 7 lb. Size: 6 x 10 x 5 inches kh Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris Robinson Posted September 4, 2003 Share Posted September 4, 2003 Dang, you're good. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mobile homeless Posted September 4, 2003 Share Posted September 4, 2003 Heh.. Ole chris. I had to find something... I was feeling the heat. Actually, the amp's input/sensitivity and input impedance is a bit important as well. What would be the amp you are using with your new pre? kh Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Audio Flynn Posted September 4, 2003 Share Posted September 4, 2003 Would 2 pair of outputs potentially wreak havoc in some configurations? NOS Valves has a Mapletree pre he could comment on; if he chimes in. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Deang Posted September 5, 2003 Share Posted September 5, 2003 "... used (< than $500) or new (< than $1,000)" The Wright has a good reputation, of course -- if you were to go with less than a $1000 used, there are other options that might best it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mobile homeless Posted September 5, 2003 Share Posted September 5, 2003 Dean, what's your suggestion for his used neighborhood that has all his needs. Most preamps tend to have more gain than 10-12dB as well as lacking two outputs. You thinking about that ole 6922 again? heh. kh Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tillerman Posted September 7, 2003 Author Share Posted September 7, 2003 To all (Kelly particularily), Thank you for the info on the Wright. It appears that low gain preamps are a bit uncommon, although they seem (to me at least) to be a natural choice for use with sensitive speakers. I use a pair of Chorus speakers and a VMPS larger sub in my system, which is my reason for a pair of outputs. I like having useable control through my volume/attenuation knob of more than 1/4 rotation. Just for info, my web research has turned up the Grounded Grid preamp by Bruce Rozenblit (Transcendent) as a low gain, single output pre. In searching his builder archives, it appears that his and other preamps could be set up with dual outputs if I wanted to go the DIY route. BTW, can anyone define what unity gain means? Thanks, Scott Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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