Preamp...help me pick one

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Comments

  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    kcoc321 wrote: »
    That is cool... Can you link them? I want to check out what they have ;)

    sure.....http://www.hi-end.on9mart.com/cart/QP_T-1.html
  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,171
    edited May 2012
    First off the Quinpu is an integrated amp not a pre-amp. Second since it's rated at 65wpc it would be interesting to see what class D chipset it uses as I think that's a very generous rating. This is a hybrid integrated with a SS chip amp output and most likely a tube buffered front end, not even a real tube gain stage.

    I see it has a line out, but again it's most likely tube buffered and not a real tube gain stage.

    H9
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Pangea AC14SE MKII | Legend L600 | BlueSound Node 3 - Tubes add soul!
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    Drenis wrote: »
    Couldn't help but look at this T-1 unit on ebay. Not sure if you caught this but seeing as you live in the states, I'm unsure how much of an issue this might pan out for you.


    "Power Supply: 220V(?10%) 60Hz/50Hz
    There is not 110v version for this item."

    Otherwise it looks slick and makes nice power for a small integrated.

    I sent emails to on9mart and Audio Advisor checking on 120v US version.....will let you know....peter
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    hochpt21 wrote: »
    Ok...I am continuing my journey of slowly upgrading my 2-channel. I'm thinking the next step is a dedicated preamp to replace the HK3490.

    I am not buying right now, but I am looking for suggestions/guidance so I can do my own research and be ready if a good deal comes along.

    My budget will probably be $500-$750.

    My room is approx 12' deep by 24' wide. I listen to a lot of stuff, but mostly jazz, blues, some classic rock and some acoustic stuff. Approx 30% vinyl, 50% squeezebox and 20% cd/music dvd's/cable box.

    I love the detail on the LSi15's. I want to keep as much of that detail as possible, however I find a little listening fatigue after long listening sessions, so maybe something to warm it up slightly?

    I'm good with new or used (would prefer to be somewhat newer used)

    Here are a couple I have been looking at so far...
    Parasound Classic 2100
    Rotel RC-1550

    I am open to any thoughts or suggestions. For example, maybe a jump to the $500 range won't make a significant difference from the HK in which case I can save more coin for a higher budget down the road.

    Thanks all,
    Paul

    as I reread your post.....I think you need a tube pre OR a tube buffer.I'm using a Dac/pre into the Yaqin CD3 Tube Buffer.....I've upgraded the tubes to RCA 6SNGTB's or RCA VT-231's...The buffer sounds warm and liquid with a bigger soundstage....Total cost for the Dac/pre and Buffer with upgraded tubes:<$500.....no dryness or fatigue with these babie....peter
  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,171
    edited May 2012
    pietro944 wrote: »
    as I reread your post.....I think you need a tube pre OR a tube buffer.I'm using a Dac/pre into the Yaqin CD3 Tube Buffer.....I've upgraded the tubes to RCA 6SNGTB's or RCA VT-231's...The buffer sounds warm and liquid with a bigger soundstage....Total cost for the Dac/pre and Buffer with upgraded tubes:<$500.....no dryness or fatigue with these babie....peter

    Except he has stated a couple times now he's not really interested in going down the tube path at this time.

    H9
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Pangea AC14SE MKII | Legend L600 | BlueSound Node 3 - Tubes add soul!
  • hochpt21
    hochpt21 Posts: 5,423
    edited May 2012
    Thanks for all the input. The 750 is definitely on my watch list.

    For all the tube reccomendations...maybe I'll try a tube phono stage next.

    Anyone run a pre with a B & K amp?
    2 ChannelTurntable - VPI Classic 2/Ortofon 2M BlueAmplification - Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II, Parks Audio Budgie PhonoSpeakers - GoldenEar Triton 17.2 Home TheaterDenon AVR-X3300W; Rotel RMB-1066; Klipsch RP-280F's, Klipsch RP-450C, Polk FXi3's, Polk RC60i; Dual SVS PB 2000's; BenQ HT2050; Elite Screens 120"Man CaveTurntable - Pro-Ject 2.9 Wood/Grado GoldAmplification - Dared SL2000a, McCormack DNA 0.5 DeluxeCD: Cambridge AudioSpeakers - Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary; LSiM 703; SDA 2A
  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,171
    edited May 2012
    hochpt21 wrote: »
    Thanks for all the input. The 750 is definitely on my watch list.

    For all the tube reccomendations...maybe I'll try a tube phono stage next.

    Anyone run a pre with a B & K amp?

    I think the tube phono stage is an excellent idea. Maybe Rich can give you some ideas. I know Doug has a Project 1, IIRC.

    H9
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Pangea AC14SE MKII | Legend L600 | BlueSound Node 3 - Tubes add soul!
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    heiney9 wrote: »
    Except he has stated a couple times now he's not really interested in going down the tube path at this time.

    H9

    Was this before or after he mentioned he was open to ANY and ALL suggestions or thoughts?:rolleyes:
  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,171
    edited May 2012
    hochpt21 wrote: »
    Not sure I'm ready for that.
    hochpt21 wrote: »
    Don't know if I would have the time right now. It is something I would like to do in the future, however.

    His responses in reference to tube suggestions.

    I was just pointing it out, funny how these threads take on a life of their own. From a pre-amp to an integrated Chinese tube/hybrid from across the oceans to tube buffers..........except what the OP asked.

    It's natural for the discussion to steer off course my comment was just a little nudge back on course, carry on.

    H9

    P.s. After to answer your question, pay attention
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Pangea AC14SE MKII | Legend L600 | BlueSound Node 3 - Tubes add soul!
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    heiney9 wrote: »
    His responses in reference to tube suggestions.

    I was just pointing it out, funny how these threads take on a life of their own. From a pre-amp to an integrated Chinese tube/hybrid from across the oceans to tube buffers..........except what the OP asked.

    It's natural for the discussion to steer off course my comment was just a little nudge back on course, carry on.

    H9

    P.s. After to answer your question, pay attention

    Yawohl,mein herr!:mad:
  • cstmar01
    cstmar01 Posts: 4,424
    edited May 2012
    http://app.audiogon.com/listings/musical-fidelity-a3-2cr-high-end-2-channel-remote-contr
    http://app.audiogon.com/listings/aragon-18k-mk2

    Otherwise if you wanted the Adcom is a great sounding unit. Tubes really are nothing to be afraid of. I know your in WI and let me know if sometime you want to hear my system. Its an all tube system (besides my phono stage and CDP). Just gotta catch me when I'm home :sad:
  • cstmar01
    cstmar01 Posts: 4,424
    edited May 2012
    pietro944 wrote: »
    Yawohl,mein herr!:mad:

    you seriously have some issues.
  • dcmartinpc
    dcmartinpc Posts: 844
    edited May 2012
    One of the reasons I love the 750 is that it will allow you to put in a tube pre, such as the Dared SL2000, and use it passively as a "Switcher".

    I think the 750 should be at the top of your list. I have been more than happy with mine and I don't see it going anywhere anytime soon, if ever, unless I win the lottery :smile:

    Don
    Living Room: Adcom GFP-750 (Upgraded), Squeezebox Touch, Oppo BDP-83, Pioneer DV-79AVi, Parasound HCA-3500 (Upgraded), SDA SRS 2 P/B (Gimpod, Sonicaps, & Mills)

    Theater: Denon 4311ci, Oppo BDP-93, Parasound HCA-2205+HCA-2200II, Polk LSi9, LSiC, LSiFX, LSi7, Custom 18" TC Sounds sub with 2 18" PR, Sharp XV-Z12000, Pioneer Kuro KRP-500M (isf Enabled)

    Bedroom: HK AVR354, Pioneer DV-47a, Parasound HCA-1500a, Polk LSi9
  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,171
    edited May 2012
    dcmartinpc wrote: »
    One of the reasons I love the 750 is that it will allow you to put in a tube pre, such as the Dared SL2000, and use it passively as a "Switcher".

    I think the 750 should be at the top of your list. I have been more than happy with mine and I don't see it doing anywhere anytime soon, if ever, unless I win the lottery :smile:

    Don

    Yep, that's the ticket and I feel the same way.........going nowhere soon, the Dared neither.
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Pangea AC14SE MKII | Legend L600 | BlueSound Node 3 - Tubes add soul!
  • dcmartinpc
    dcmartinpc Posts: 844
    edited May 2012
    heiney9 wrote: »
    Yep, that's the ticket and I feel the same way.........going nowhere soon, the Dared neither.

    The Dared is my next purchase for my 2 channel system! I just need to recover from my basement remodel first...

    Honestly, hochpt21, you sound like you are in the exact same place I was when I started to get serious about 2 channel. I have been there for about a year and I am ready to make the step into tubes now. Its a fun journey!

    Don

    Don
    Living Room: Adcom GFP-750 (Upgraded), Squeezebox Touch, Oppo BDP-83, Pioneer DV-79AVi, Parasound HCA-3500 (Upgraded), SDA SRS 2 P/B (Gimpod, Sonicaps, & Mills)

    Theater: Denon 4311ci, Oppo BDP-93, Parasound HCA-2205+HCA-2200II, Polk LSi9, LSiC, LSiFX, LSi7, Custom 18" TC Sounds sub with 2 18" PR, Sharp XV-Z12000, Pioneer Kuro KRP-500M (isf Enabled)

    Bedroom: HK AVR354, Pioneer DV-47a, Parasound HCA-1500a, Polk LSi9
  • SCompRacer
    SCompRacer Posts: 8,500
    edited May 2012
    Paul, Rob has a Music Hall PA1.2 solid state phono pre, like $150. It sounds pretty good. I was amazed at the bang he got out of his turntable upgrade. Rob does have a tube pre though so it may sound different with a SS pre. The synergy word rears its head when mixing seperates. Doug has different tube Project phono pres and they cost more but sound very, very good. You beat depreciation by buying used of course.

    Tubes are a personal choice thing. You may like what they do, you may like the various tonal changes tube rolling can bring. Tube gear can add pleasing distortion or they can be very low distortion. All depends on the circuit and tube used. Get your ears on as much gear as you can then make a decision for yourself if tubes really do rule for you.
    Salk SoundScape 8's * Audio Research Reference 3 * Bottlehead Eros Phono * Park's Audio Budgie SUT * Krell KSA-250 * Harmonic Technology Pro 9+ * Signature Series Sonore Music Server w/Deux PS * Roon * Gustard R26 DAC / Singxer SU-6 DDC * Heavy Plinth Lenco L75 Idler Drive * AA MG-1 Linear Air Bearing Arm * AT33PTG/II & Denon 103R * Richard Gray 600S * NHT B-12d subs * GIK Acoustic Treatments * Sennheiser HD650 *
  • hochpt21
    hochpt21 Posts: 5,423
    edited May 2012
    Tubes really are nothing to be afraid of. I know your in WI and let me know if sometime you want to hear my system. Its an all tube system (besides my phono stage and CDP). Just gotta catch me when I'm home

    Thank you for the offer. Sounds like you have about as much time as I do, though.:sad:
    One of the reasons I love the 750 is that it will allow you to put in a tube pre, such as the Dared SL2000, and use it passively as a "Switcher".
    Yep, that's the ticket and I feel the same way.........going nowhere soon, the Dared neither.

    See, that is good info that I probably wouldn't have readily figured out on my own.
    Paul, Rob has a Music Hall PA1.2 solid state phono pre, like $150. It sounds pretty good. I was amazed at the bang he got out of his turntable upgrade

    Good to know. I guess we'll see what preamp I ultimately end up with, and go from there with the phono stage.
    2 ChannelTurntable - VPI Classic 2/Ortofon 2M BlueAmplification - Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II, Parks Audio Budgie PhonoSpeakers - GoldenEar Triton 17.2 Home TheaterDenon AVR-X3300W; Rotel RMB-1066; Klipsch RP-280F's, Klipsch RP-450C, Polk FXi3's, Polk RC60i; Dual SVS PB 2000's; BenQ HT2050; Elite Screens 120"Man CaveTurntable - Pro-Ject 2.9 Wood/Grado GoldAmplification - Dared SL2000a, McCormack DNA 0.5 DeluxeCD: Cambridge AudioSpeakers - Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary; LSiM 703; SDA 2A
  • Dawgfish
    Dawgfish Posts: 2,554
    edited May 2012
    thsmith wrote: »
    Anthem Pre 2L. Has remote for HT Bypass and volume.

    Cant remember what the remote does for GFP-750, another good option as stated above.

    With some nice but expensive 6922s I preferred the Anthem but that was about $400 in tubes bringing the Anthem to about $1000.

    +1 on the Anthem Pre2L or an Anthem Pre1L. The only problem is they don't come around to often. I'm looking for a Pre2L or 1L myself for my work apartment system. Tubes will definitely aleviate listener fatigue.
  • leroyjr1
    leroyjr1 Posts: 8,785
    edited May 2012
    Hochpt21, what part of Wisconsin are you in?
  • pietro944
    pietro944 Posts: 720
    edited May 2012
    cstmar01 wrote: »
    you seriously have some issues.

    ....with pomposity and elitism.......I surely do:wink:
  • hochpt21
    hochpt21 Posts: 5,423
    edited May 2012
    leroyjr1 wrote: »
    Hochpt21, what part of Wisconsin are you in?

    Portage...about 35 min north of Madison and about 1.5 hrs from Milwaukee
    2 ChannelTurntable - VPI Classic 2/Ortofon 2M BlueAmplification - Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II, Parks Audio Budgie PhonoSpeakers - GoldenEar Triton 17.2 Home TheaterDenon AVR-X3300W; Rotel RMB-1066; Klipsch RP-280F's, Klipsch RP-450C, Polk FXi3's, Polk RC60i; Dual SVS PB 2000's; BenQ HT2050; Elite Screens 120"Man CaveTurntable - Pro-Ject 2.9 Wood/Grado GoldAmplification - Dared SL2000a, McCormack DNA 0.5 DeluxeCD: Cambridge AudioSpeakers - Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary; LSiM 703; SDA 2A