Suggestions on first amp and/or preamp under $1,500

[adnick]

If you have something with a Line input and just wanted a phono tube preamp, it’s difficult to beat an EAR 834p clone, especially considering the going rate for one. The key is the tubes, a trio of 12ax7s but you only need one premium 12AX7 for the best performance.

VR
Andy

 

[coonmanx]

I could definitely see going with a tube pre into a solid state amp.

 

[rage]

I'd suggest a new production Dynaco ST-70 you build yourself and Dave Slagle TVC passive volume control.

 

[sqlsavior]

I think you should get that Technics receiver out of storage, hook it up, and see how it sounds, before trying to decide which of a million units would best replace it.

 

[bluesky]

1987 Sansui AU-X901 amp, 130W, MM / MC, Loudness, 'Source Direct' (which is outrageous - pure sound).

or 1987 Sansui AU-X701 amp, 100W, MM / MC, Loudness, 'Source Direct'.

These amps sound simply wonderful. Both are the first amps in Sansui's 'Alpha' Series. And that's saying something as far as quality and sound quality goes!

They are the kind of amps where, when you hear them, you just think and say... " WOW !! "

Not easy to find. The folks that have them usually don't sell them, especially the X901. The X701(s) are 'easier' to find, but still not easy to find. They both sound exactly the same except for the power difference. X701s do sell cheaper than the X901s of course. If you find a 'nice' X701 - just buy it !! No decision is to be made. Jump on it!! It won't be around for very long.

They sound clean, fast, precise, accurate, and with plenty of deep clean bass. A solid state amps with a Tubish sound, which is what Sansui strove for in their designs. An audiophile amp sound if that's what your looking for.

I have the AU-X901. My amp search is o-v-e-r. I love this amp and hope it lasts forever, and ever.

The AU-X701s do sell a bit cheaper than AU-X901(s), of course. Both below your budget!

Just some amps to be aware of & know about, know they exist!

Good Luck in your amp search!!