meuge Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 My system currently consists of a pair of RF-3IIs, a Pioneer VSX-811S used as a pre/pro and a B&K ST-2020 amp. I'm looking to acquire a good preamp for the least possible amount of money (<$400 - so I obviously have to buy used). I would also be OK with a pre/pro as opposed to a dedicated preamp, because otherwise i still need to use the DACs from the Pioneer (the pre/pro would have to have 24/96 DACs or even 24/192). P.S. I would prefer the preamp to have a remote and I dream of it having balanced outputs, but I would readily sacrifice these things for better audio quality at a lower price. (Balanced outputs can go with a shrug, but I'd shed a tear for a remote). P.P.S. I'll also take suggestions for tubes, but I know nothing about tubes, and have a solid-state amp, so I have mixed feelings about them. Thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
itsmyforte Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 acurus RL-11, awesome performance per dollar. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
meuge Posted August 9, 2004 Author Share Posted August 9, 2004 Thanks, the RL-11 seems to have amazingly good reviews. Unfortunately I can't find one atm, on ebay or audiogon : ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Klipschfoot Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 PS Audio makes some good SS preamps. Check the 4.5. I own a much older model and can tell you that PS Audio supports their products despite their age. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daddy Dee Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 The Dynaco PAT-5 is a well regarded SS preamp. I used to own and was pleased with it. Alas, no remote, but it won't hurt your budget much. If you are open to recommendations to a tube preamp, there are some good options out there. To my understanding, a tube preamp and SS power amp combination would bring more of the tube sound to your system than an SS preamp and tube power amp. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stan krajewski Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 Adcom GFP-555, Adcom GFP-565. I have the Adcom GFP-555 and my buddy has the 565. After hearing his setup I found a 555 cheap ($125.00) on Audiogon and scooped it up and I am very happy with it. I have owned other preamps and like this one the best. I had a Dynaco PAS2 and Dynaco PAS3 and was constantly fussing with both of them until I finally sold them. You just plug in the Adcom and thats it. And believe it or not, I like the sound much better than the Dynacos. Its much cleaner. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AndyKubicki Posted August 9, 2004 Share Posted August 9, 2004 They come up once in a while on eBay...if you see an Audire, check it out. Very good reputation...for info go to Audire.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark Hardy Posted August 10, 2004 Share Posted August 10, 2004 The late-1970's Hafler SS preamp and the roughly contemporary Apt/Holman SS preamp were both very nice. Also GAS Thaedra and Phoebe of the same era. The mid/late 1970's Yamaha SS preamps were pretty decent, too. Dunno about any modern SS stuff... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TommyK Posted August 11, 2004 Share Posted August 11, 2004 Hey, if you are in NYC, which it appears you are, you can borrow my McIntosh MC-24 solid state. If you like, we can find a fair price. I am in NJ, but work in the City several days a week usually. Peace, TommyK Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Schurkey Posted August 11, 2004 Share Posted August 11, 2004 I have an Adcom GFP-565. Very nice. I have considered buying an Aragon 24K, but no longer. I went to an Aragon Stage One. The '565 is now my phono preamp. Aragon 28K is currently getting blown out the doors at 1/2 retail. Supplies low at Audio Advisor. Move quickly. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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