What pre you using?

cstmar01

Well I've had a few preamps so far.

First true pre for 2 channel would be the Parasound 2100, then followed by a Golden Tube Audio SEP 1, then moved to a Rotel unit which was not working correctly and then was replaced by a Adcom GFP 750 which then was replaced with my BAT VK-31.

So far the BAT has been the best in terms of Soundstage and 3D sound. Images great and love the thing. If I ever in the future upgrade it would probably be in the BAT line or might try out a VTL pre to see how it pairs with the VTL amps I have.

Jetmaker737

I'm running a Modwright SWL9.0 SE Signature with Tung Sol 5687's and a Mullard UK rectifier. Had it a couple years now. It's the only 2 channel pre I've had other than a brief stint with a Parasound 2100 which I didn't think did a much better job than my Oinker AVR. I've been very happy with the Modwright. Sound is fantastic. My only complaints would be: 1) I wish it had balance control since I have several listening positions, 2) I wish you could remotely control the HT bypass (it's a manual switch only), 3) the remote has to be very near directly in front of the unit due to the receptor is recessed behind the faceplate. I've always had a desire to try some Conrad-Johnson equipment, specifically the PV-14LS2 or PV-15 but have never pulled the trigger.

RickTfromAZ

I am presently using a Parasound Halo JC-2. It replaced a Adcom GFP-750, which I still have. The JC-2 will eventually be replaced by a Pass Labs XP-30.

jmwest1970

I've been quite please with my Arcam Alpha 9 Pre. It mates well with the Parasound amp I have driving Totem Rainmakers. However, I'm still looking forward to the day I can replace it with something like a Dodd Battery Preamp.

CCNJ

I recently moved to a Benchmark HDR Pre and Dac. I am very pleased with it. I find it very accurate and neutral and pairs well with my Totem Hawks. Some day I would like to experiment with a tube pre, maybe a VTL pre, but for now I am happy.

drumminman

Used a NAD C160 until 3 years ago. Still have it and it's a nice little unit with a second set of pre outs with volume control so one can passively biamp with different brand amps and adjust the levels.

3 years ago I bought an Odyssey Candela. Sounded really good with the stock JJ Tesla 12AU7 tubes, much better with NOS RCA clear tops. Recently bought some Amperex NOS (7316 ?) from a forum member that have absolutely taken it to a whole new level, which I didn't think possible after the improvement with the clear tops.

One of the things I love about it is I bought the remote with it so I can turn the volume up and down from my listening position.

steveinaz

CCNJ wrote: »

I recently moved to a Benchmark HDR Pre and Dac. I am very pleased with it. I find it very accurate and neutral and pairs well with my Totem Hawks. Some day I would like to experiment with a tube pre, maybe a VTL pre, but for now I am happy.

You've got some very nice rigs!

CCNJ

steveinaz wrote: »

You've got some very nice rigs!

Thanks Steve. Hanging around this forum was not good for my wallet but I learned a lot and enjoy the journey. My next upgrade is the amp in Rig1 but with two kids in college and some recent home renovations, I think I will just enjoy what I have for the moment.

Chris

headrott

cstmar01 wrote: »

Well I've had a few preamps so far.

First true pre for 2 channel would be the Parasound 2100, then followed by a Golden Tube Audio SEP 1, then moved to a Rotel unit which was not working correctly and then was replaced by a Adcom GFP 750 which then was replaced with my BAT VK-31.

So far the BAT has been the best in terms of Soundstage and 3D sound. Images great and love the thing. If I ever in the future upgrade it would probably be in the BAT line or might try out a VTL pre to see how it pairs with the VTL amps I have.

What tubes you got going on in there?

BAT preamps have phenominal 3D soundstaging! Glad you are still enjoying your VK-31.