Lots of choices Out there. Just curious what everybody here is using. Currently, im running a Peachtree Nova pre with my new Nuforce STA200 amp. I'd like to upgrade my pre eventually to an all analog, keep for life, with remote preamp. The Nuforce is a go between amp ( however, i love it so much, im in no hurry to replace it). Probably SS, but could be convinced to go tube pre if easy to maintain.
I own three right now but I use two: a Manley Neo-Classic 300B RC which has pretty much been relegated to service as a truly awesome headphone amp ( which was actually the original intent behind it, I believe ) and the one that pushed it out of the actual preamp spot in my system, a Sphinx Labs Project 9 which is just a wonderful SS unit. The third one I own is a Sumo Athena, also solid state. D.D.
a Chinese tube preamp from AliExpress, US170 including shipping. opened up unit and saw a 2 x 2 inch PCB linked to a mini toroidal transformer and nothing else. swapped the 3 x 12A7s with PS Vanes that cost 3/4 the price of the preamp with no regrets. sounds good that my Conrad Johnson PV11 is now on long term loan to a friend
Used to have a a Yamaha C4 and loved it. Now I use what ever Rogue stuck inside my Sphinx. Love it, too. I don't muss the tone controls.
The onboard preamp on my Quad 9as speakers for TV. The preamp on the Cambridge Audio 752BD (when going by the line-in input on the Quads) for movies and music at all other times.
Me too. I started out trying the passive route with a Schiit Sys and loved it. The Tisbury is a nice upgrade. I feed it with a Sutherland Ph3d and it's the best setup I've heard in my system. Edit: I should add that in my other system I go in the opposite direction with a Sansui AU717 integrated and enjoy copious use of tone controls as needed.
The old Sansui gear is a thing of wonder. I've had a 717 and a 217 in the past. The latter deserved to be heralded more IMO. And a fantastic used by even now. Lovely tone to it.
The Freya is on my list as well. I've read its a much higher performer than the price would leave you to believe