So far in my audio journey I’ve only had integrated amps. I’m wanting to try a class D amps, mono blocks, and other amps and thinking that I should invest in a good preamp and then get different power amps.
Preamps I’m considering in the $4k and under range include:
- Naim Uniti Atom HE
- Parasound P6
- Schiit Kara or Freya
- Cambridge Audio Edge NQ
- PrimaLuna EVO 300
- LTA Microzotl
- Black Ice Audio F360
Anyone here have any experience with any of these Preamps or other suggestions?
I currently have both the LTA Microzotl and the Schiit Freya+. I've had either the MZ2 (I rue the day I sold it) or now the Microzotl for the past 4+ years. The Microzotl is a forever piece. Its fully upgraded and has fancy pants NOS tubes.
I've had ~8 preamps and/or integrateds, and only the LTA gear has made me feel like nothing is lost, shrouded, hemmed in, congested, etc. It fully transmits everything its recieved, but in an organic, non fussy or sterile way. I honestly don't know how much better it could ever get for my tastes.
The Freya+ is in my 2nd system (see sig), and it's really good for the money. Def tubey warmth - and some darkness (I only run it with tubed on). It's pretty strong at soundstage placement. Not just a ball of sound in the middle, but well sorted out.
The LTA still smokes the Schiit, AND the LTA has a killer headphone amp as well. BUT it costs over 3x more than the Freya, both new and on the used market.
If you can swing the LTA, esp used, I highly recommend it. I like my gear to sound wiiiiide open, with blood and guts and some sweetness, rather than being hyper accurate. (Team Subjectivist, here.) The LTA does not offer sweetness, but it does deliver the soundstage and organic feel, though.
nadelectronics.com
