• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Searching For a Preamp

S

SCrooks

New Member
Hi all,

I'm new to the forum and am looking for a nudge in the right direction when it comes to selecting a preamp to complete my home audio setup.

I came into a Mitsubishi DA-A7DC power amplifier, which joins my Sony PS-X50 turntable, and Mangepan Magneplanar MG-IIA speakers.

I've actually used the speakers and turntable in the past, but they were stored away until I was recently able to reunite with them. I used to run the speakers and turntable with an old Rotel receiver, but I no longer have it. Now I am looking for a more thoughtful combination that incorporates the power amp.

Ideally, I was looking for a Mitsubishi preamp...but I haven't had any luck finding one (that would ship). I'm willing to spend in the ball park of a few hundred dollars and would be grateful if anyone could offer their two cents on what direction to take.

Thanks for any input you can offer.
 
Register to hide this ad
Thanks for the response. Interesting reading. Has the feel of a cult classic.

I did see a few other posts regarding the quality of the phono input. Worth worrying about?
 
SCrooks said:
I did see a few other posts regarding the quality of the phono input. Worth worrying about?
Click to expand...

If you don't mind working/tweaking on your gear, I'd look for a pre that has a restore link on AK. There are a couple of DH-101 (and the newer DH-110) restore links that will clean up any sound concerns. I've never noticed but I like the Hafler gear.

Otherwise you will need to find one that has been restored (assuming you want vintage).

@avionic probably has a Yamaha on the shelf ready for you. @leesonic has a NAD, ...

Finding a restored Mitsubishi might take some time and you could pick up something now to get your system together. If you are in the area, swing by and pick up one or two to try out. Might help narrow your focus.
 
Last edited:
Thanks, @avionic.

Thanks, @rickl. I think the problem became a lack of focus once I realized the Mitsubishi was not going to be an easy find. There are surely a lot of options out there.

I looked around for an available DH-101 and found some for sale. As that you have a knack for Hafler, what price point do you think you would draw the line at for a DH-101? I understand that condition/modifications are a consideration, but do you have a ball park?

Thanks.
 
not that it matters but I think I paid $200 for mine in 1980 (might have been earlier; I bought it new). I think the Mods will like any cost estimates in the Dollars and Sense forum.

I checked ebay and a newer DH-110 seems cheaper.

Here is Bob's 101 thread. I think he has a DH-110 thread too.

Lately I've been kind of a Kenwood fanboy and started looking at the cheap Kenwood KC rack series preamps. i picked up a KC-209 and did a few updates similar to a Kenwood Basic pre and don't think it is all that bad. These are very cheap. I've studied the schematic and not a lot of difference between the KC series. It just depend on the BPC look you can tolerate. Even the Kenwood Basic C1 or C2 can be had fairly inexpensive.

I think it depends on what you want. Something vintage and sounding good with your Mitsubishi? I see a few different paths: something great that needs no work, something that might be great but needs to be restored and wait to find a Mitsu pre.

Or you could look in the manufacturing sites for any resto stickies and see what others like. My guess if there is a resto thread, someone must like it to take the time and effort into one.

I think I'd ask @avionic if he has something and just listen to the music.
 
Last edited:
2563971-463e48c3-beautiful-vintage-yamaha-c-2-natural-sound-preamp-with-mc-phono-stage.jpg
 
A friend offered to lend me Bellaria PA550 phono preamp as I continue my search for a Mitsubishi preamp. Does anyone see any issue with running that in the meantime? It is either as simple as I think it is, or I am missing something.
Thanks.
 
Thanks. I'll give it a go as the search continues.

You all have given me some things to think about, and I definitely appreciate the input.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom