Select My Preamp

My tube linestages all provide source selection, remote volume control and feature dual sets of stereo outputs to connect more than one amplifier (or a main amp and a powered subwoofer). Aside from adding gain, they also add to the soundstage depth and width, and can allow the amplifier to sound larger than it is. Subtle tube harmonics and smoothness can help take the “digital edge” off of a solid state amplifier, and complement the sound of a tube amplifier as well. All of my line-stages use the same basic circuit, feature a Khozmo remote volume system, 4 sets of stereo inputs and 2 sets of stereo outputs. 5 step selectable output level is incorporated on all of them as well to gain match to virtually any amp.

LINESTAGES:

Super 6SN7 Linestage: This unit is my “entry level” linestage but the sonics easily compete with liestages costing twice as much. It uses the same circuit as my Motherlode II and very similar sound. Offers a very low noise floor and provides richness and bloom to the signal, but is not veiled or “syrupy” sounding. Expands the overall soundstage nicely.
The Motherlode II: Separates the power supply from the signal chassis for an even lower noise floor and adds further isolation by means of tube damper plates as well as thick alloy isolation footers. Additional power supply filtering is also incorporated to give this unit a noticeable step up in refinement with blacker backgrounds allowing for more detail retrieval than the Super.

The Motherlode XL: Expounds upon the Motherlode II and offers balanced connectivity. It has 2 fully balanced sets of XLR inputs, as well as a set of balanced XLR outputs (the other 2 sets of inputs and second set of outputs are RCA). It adds two additional chokes for filtering, and uses Clarity Cap SA finals in the power supply. Jupiter copper foil capacitors are used instead of Miflex caps, as well as Takman carbon film signal resistors. This unit sounds even more refined, transparent and detailed without sounding strident or bright in any way.

PHONO STAGE:

Super MM phono stage: NOTE: This unit does not accept line level inputs and is for phono only. Accepts connection of turntables fitted with a moving magnet cartridge. Corrects the RIAA curve by means of passive equalization, and provides up to 40 db of gain (which is variable). Works very well connected to one of my line-stages, or can be used with an integrated amplifier. Direct connection to a power amp is also possible, and the gain control on the phono stage can be used as a volume (although it’s on the rear of the unit). It can be placed on the front panel or top plate upon request. This unit can also be custom built to accept Moving Coil cartridges by being fitted with Sowter step-up transformers mounted to the top plate. A switch for X10 or X20 is added for the transformer. The price for the MC upgrade is an additional $1,500.