Low output impedance valve pre-amp recommendations?

[Nyal Mellor]

Hi, looking for the wise advice of the forum...I would like to try out some valve pre-amps driving ATC active speakers which are 10kOhm impedance, and take only balanced inputs. It seems like output transformers are pretty much mandatory. I've compiled a short list for your review:

- Modwright LS36.5
- BAT (the new ones with transformers)
- Coincident Statement Linestage
- Purity Audio Reference
- EAR 864 / 912

Any others you would recommend, and any personal experience?

[Mike]

How about VAC?

[puroagave]

are the ATCs balanced? the manley jumbo shrimp has an output impedance of just 91 ohms (single-ended) and states it can drive a load impedance down to 2500 ohms.

ps - oops, i just saw balanced only. manley's pro gear line may include a line level pre that does what you need. or you can short the neg and ground pin on the XLR and it should drive the ATC's input fine.

[Jack]

If this is just "an experiment" I would go with the Modwright. Less outlay up front, especially used, therefore easier to sell.

[Anatta]

Einstein
Atmasphere

[Duke]

I've heard tales of the Atma-Sphere MP-1 preamplifier driving 32-ohm speakers. It has an output impedance of 30 ohms.

The less expensive MP-3 has an output impedance of 250 ohms. It will work just fine with a 10K ohm load. The MP-3 is the preamp I used back when I was an ATC dealer.

Or just give Ralph a call, 651-690-2246.

To the best of my knowledge, Atma-Sphere is among the few manufacturers of balanced high-end preamps that conform to the AES File 48 protocols for balanced audio gear.

[XV-1]

conrad johnson GAT with rca to xlr adaptors.

will sound better than almost anything.