Zero Zone Cary SLP-90 clone Preamp

[Dr.J]

Hello everyone & I also have the Cary SLP - 90 clone. I’ve modified it by replacing the coupling caps with Jantzen Superior Z’s and bypassing them with Solen .1uf SM caps. I also bought the upgraded board and replaced the two resistors in the signal path with AudioNote Tantalum’s. I’ve been using two sets of tubes, JAN Sylvania computer tubes and now Haltrons. I’m very pleased with the results, especially as I have it paired to my newly rebuilt McIntosh MC2105, a great match! My reason for writing, however, is that I feel the preamp needs two more mods, the bottom plate should have vent holes to help circulate the interior air as it does run a little on the hot side. Also, I feel the unit needs a soft start circuit, with a Thermistor, because the inrush current really lights up the tubes! In its stock form, it is likely to shorten the life of the tubes each time you turn it on. Lastly, I think the unit would benefit from a nicer set of feet like the vibrapods!

 

[Lavane]

Hello everyone & I also have the Cary SLP - 90 clone. I’ve modified it by replacing the coupling caps with Jantzen Superior Z’s and bypassing them with Solen .1uf SM caps. I also bought the upgraded board and replaced the two resistors in the signal path with AudioNote Tantalum’s. I’ve been using two sets of tubes, JAN Sylvania computer tubes and now Haltrons. I’m very pleased with the results, especially as I have it paired to my newly rebuilt McIntosh MC2105, a great match! My reason for writing, however, is that I feel the preamp needs two more mods, the bottom plate should have vent holes to help circulate the interior air as it does run a little on the hot side. Also, I feel the unit needs a soft start circuit, with a Thermistor, because the inrush current really lights up the tubes! In its stock form, it is likely to shorten the life of the tubes each time you turn it on. Lastly, I think the unit would benefit from a nicer set of feet like the vibrapods!

Any pictures?

 

[Dr.J]

Hello everyone! I’ve just finished a few additional mods to my Carly SLP - 90 clone and thought I’d share. I added a simple soft start circuit, using a Thermistor, which helps, slows the inrush current (this is worthwhile). I had some Cardas hookup cable laying around and debated between it and silver wiring, but opted for the Cardas, instead and replaced the original input/output wiring. I also sourced some beautiful high purity copper, silver plated rca phono jacks, from china (they were inexpensive, but the quality is exceptionally high - identical format to the orginals) and replaced all but one input, leaving the last as an alternative. And, lastly, I sourced some NOS Haltron vacuum tubes. I’m only approaching the 3 hour mark and what I immediately noticed is that it plays a little louder. I’m very happy with the overall outcome and with this beautiful little preamp! Oh, I almost forgot, I put nylon spacers under the main board posts to help cushion vibrations and am also using both the Vibrapods and cones, three combined (inexpensive) and overall, the sound (listening to my modfied directstream dac) is very seductive and enjoyable!

 

[Feanor]

Hi folks,

I'm expecting imminent delivery of the "upgraded" version finished preamp from AliExpress, based on Zero Zone PRT12A-SPL90 U1 pcb ... See link HERE. The vendor says, "Using ERO 1813 and SCR coupling capacitors", SCR is the French company thst supplies Solen.

Here's a pic of the "upgraded" pcb; you can plainly see the SCR and other capacitors that are different; also various resistors are apparently different. I ordered mine with PSVANE 'ART' 12AU7-S tubes.



I'll update when I get the unit, maybe tomorrow.