The reason why I recommend buying it new is because some sellers subject their tube amp and preamps to stress buy trying many different tubes to alter the sound. This constant pulling-and-pushing of the tubes into the socket subjects the PCB that the tube socket is attached to, to terrible stress. It also loosens the contacts with the pins. Pacificvalve.us gives you a one year warranty. While purchasing it directly from YS Audio gives you 2 years. It's your call, but do try this one!
I have owned many preamps from Cary(SLP-98P), Berning( TF-10), Audible Illusions( Modulus 3A.) McIntosh( C42, C33, C39), and many others. I do not remember any of them giving the WOW factor that preamp gives me. And it continues to sound better the more you use it because it needs about 150 hours of burn-in) . It is very well balanced(no pun intended). With outstand bass, smooth-silky-highs, and a wonderful midrange!!! If you see one used, grab it! However, I recommend buying it new.
This is the Balanced A2SE(special Edition). There is a model A2 which sells for about $1099.00. This is an incredable preamp! In my opinion, it blows away every preamp I have heard anywhere near its price and several notches above. I just whish it had a couple of more inputs. The "Record Output" gain is a little on the low side which can be fixed by changing a couple of resistors. For some reason, Pacificvalve.us charges about $220.00 LESS! than buying it directly from YS Audio. Hmmmm......
KEEP IT IN MIND THAT THIS PREAMP SELLS EXTREMELY FAST ON THE USED MARKET! AND THERE IS A REASON FOR THAT. YES, IT'S THAT GOOD!!!!
stevieis48 4 months ago
The reason why I recommend buying it new is because some sellers subject their tube amp and preamps to stress buy trying many different tubes to alter the sound. This constant pulling-and-pushing of the tubes into the socket subjects the PCB that the tube socket is attached to, to terrible stress. It also loosens the contacts with the pins. Pacificvalve.us gives you a one year warranty. While purchasing it directly from YS Audio gives you 2 years. It's your call, but do try this one!
stevieis48 4 months ago
I have owned many preamps from Cary(SLP-98P), Berning( TF-10), Audible Illusions( Modulus 3A.) McIntosh( C42, C33, C39), and many others. I do not remember any of them giving the WOW factor that preamp gives me. And it continues to sound better the more you use it because it needs about 150 hours of burn-in) . It is very well balanced(no pun intended). With outstand bass, smooth-silky-highs, and a wonderful midrange!!! If you see one used, grab it! However, I recommend buying it new.
stevieis48 4 months ago
This is the Balanced A2SE(special Edition). There is a model A2 which sells for about $1099.00. This is an incredable preamp! In my opinion, it blows away every preamp I have heard anywhere near its price and several notches above. I just whish it had a couple of more inputs. The "Record Output" gain is a little on the low side which can be fixed by changing a couple of resistors. For some reason, Pacificvalve.us charges about $220.00 LESS! than buying it directly from YS Audio. Hmmmm......
stevieis48 4 months ago
Hi, great review ! I think it's the Balanced A2 "SE" ?
(Sonicap coupling Caps)
Ptisik 2 years ago