Which tube preamp kit to build? Elekit TU-8500 VS Bottlehead Moreplay
- Thread starter hrudulv
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- kit tube preamp
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vinylkid58
Super Member
Yeah, really kind of apples vs oranges. Moreplay would have a much higher output impedance, if that's going to be an issue. Will most likely respond to tube rolling, whereas the TU-8500 probably won't sound much different. Completely different form factors too.
jeff
jeff
Pure tube preamplifier will definitely be better sounding. Plus if it breaks you can fix it.
What amplifier?
Moreplay will work better with high input impedance amplifiers - most tube amplifiers and some solid state amplifiers.
Go for the Elekit, I never liked Bottlehead top mount connections and controls.
And Elekit is currently on sale at Tube Depot right now…
hrudulv
Member
Dynaco ST35, VTA ST70
hrudulv
Member
Is Bottlehead Moreplay a pure tube preamp?
Yes and point to point wired for easy repair if needed in the future.
6V6 triode wired
9 dBs of gain
9 dBs of gain
vinylkid58
Super Member
Maybe you should do a little research.
Bottlehead Moreplay Preamplifier Kit
The Moreplay preamp features a 6V6-based circuit and three switchable inputs. It’s the perfect hub for digital and analog sources alike.
bottlehead.com
I don't like those either. Top mounted controls I might be able to tolerate, but top mounted connectors? No, I think that would put me off.
Lavane
Lunatic Member
Some like to show off there fancy cables. I've built various preamps and amps with connectors up top. It can make adding or removing equipment easier. I have various small secondary systems setup in a small room and having connectors up top can be handy when changing up various pieces of equipment. I can swap preamps and amps just by moving cables around without having to pull the equipment out to get to the back.
But for my main system I prefer rear mounted connections for the most part. I even have some equipment with front mounted connections.
Attachments
Agree with this, but in the end it's about the sound. I can live with imperfect cosmetics or operational inconveniences for that goal (like the Citation V, which doesn't have a power switch). About the Elekit, I've never understood why the phono pre isn't tube type. The essential support circuitry is already there (filament voltage and B+ supply), and I believe the market would support a slight increase in cost for two more tubes. In any event, it's a nice product, and an external phono preamp could always be added to the system at a later date.
Jack
And can make the build less expensive with just a top plate instead of a full enclosure.
