$5000 2 channel preamp/amp combo.

[Sleestack]

Looking to build a nice 2 channel only system. I'm willing to spend up to $5K for an amp and preamp. The preamp has to have balanced inputs and outputs. Currently I'm thinking about the Meridian G02 and G57 combo b/c I have a Meridian G08 on the way, but I would like to consider some tube based preamps.

 

[Mudcat]

http://www.manleylabs.com/

 

[jimmit]

Bryston 4B SST amp (300 wpc) and BP26 preamp. The amp runs around $3k but I don't know what the preamp runs; I suspect less than $2k. It's hard to beat Bryston's 20 year transferable warranty. It helps maintain their fairly high resale value.

 

[jaxvon]

Check out B&K Components, another great option, though I'd find it hard to pass up Bryston if you could afford it.

Oh, also, check out RE Designs.

 

[Geoh]

Looking to build a nice 2 channel only system. I'm willing to spend up to $5K for an amp and preamp. The preamp has to have balanced inputs and outputs. Currently I'm thinking about the Meridian G02 and G57 combo b/c I have a Meridian G08 on the way, but I would like to consider some tube based preamps.

Have you considered an integrated?
If so check out the DK Design VS.1 Reference MkII.
It's a hybrid design with tube preamp section.
I recently purchased one to drive my VMPS RM40's...... WOW! Very Nice.
http://www.dkdesigngroup.com/

geoh

 

[jaxvon]

That sounds like a really cool Integrated amp. Impressive specs for having a tube preamp section. Very cool look too, kinda like a more modern McIntosh.

 

[Privateer]

Have a look at Rotel.
http://www.rotel.com/na/index.htm

 

[Dan]

For a price in between B&K and Bryston try McCormack. Also look at Parasound. Theta and Ayre are supposed to be great but I think are a little above your price range. What speakers are you driving?

 

[Sleestack]

Thanks for all of the input. I decided on a Meridian G57 (2x200w) and an E.A.R. Yoshino 864 preamp. I ended up going over budget, but that happens every time I buy new equipment. I'm a sucker for Tim Paravacini's designs.

For the time being, they will be driving Onix Reference 3s.