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Ray Samuels B52 as a preamp?

post #1 of 7
7/4/08 at 8:23pm
Thread Starter 
Could someone describe their experience with the B52 as a preamp,
possibly compared to other popular tubed preamps (like from McIntosh,
Joule, VAC, Atmasphere, etc.)? Thanks in advance.
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post #2 of 7
7/4/08 at 8:53pm
I have two B-52's that I use exclusvely for headpone listening. That said, I've used the B-52 in my home rig as well as a pre-amp. I currently have a Krell Evolution preamplifier, but I've put it aside from time to time to try the B-52. I've also owned Conrad-Johnson and McIntosh preamps in the past.

I think anyone with experience with high end tube amplification would really be pleased with the B-52 as a pre-amp. I also think it is very good value. The isolated power supply is similar to the Krell in fact. It has the same signature RS "black" background and is noiseless and articulate. The bass in my B-52 is not as articulate as the Krell but good nonetheless. The B-52 is particular about tubes and good 12AX7 and 12AU7's are key. Invest in nice tubes even at higher cost. You will note a big difference. The dual balanced inputs are very nice. Again, I would highly reccommend although I've used mine in headphone application.
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post #3 of 7
7/4/08 at 9:33pm
Thread Starter 
OK, thanks for that. I actually have a B52 (just in my headphone rack) but it will take some fairly major
rearrangement to use it as a preamp, and I wanted to check with others first to see if it was worth the trouble.
I have cryo'd Mullards and (also cryo'd) Telefunkens for all the 12AU7s.
Am I on the right track here?
(I am also considering using a Placette RVC to add remote capability to the B52.
Any comments on this would also be appreciated.)
Congrats on the Krell EVO!
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post #4 of 7
7/4/08 at 9:55pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by rgs9200m View Post
OK, thanks for that. I actually have a B52 (just in my headphone rack) but it will take some fairly major
rearrangement to use it as a preamp, and I wanted to check with others first to see if it was worth the trouble.
I have cryo'd Mullards and (also cryo'd) Telefunkens for all the 12AU7s.
Am I on the right track here?
(I am also considering using a Placette RVC to add remote capability to the B52.
Any comments on this would also be appreciated.)
Congrats on the Krell EVO!
Then you'll be fine. Sounds like you already knew the answer you just needed someone to tell you to use your 4th to take apart that equipment rack. Well, get a beer and rearrange it, you'll be happy.
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post #5 of 7
7/4/08 at 10:02pm
Thread Starter 
OK, thanks again!
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post #6 of 7
7/4/08 at 10:17pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by rgs9200m View Post
OK, thanks again!
You wouldn't have this problem if you bought another one. Good luck.
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post #7 of 7
7/4/08 at 11:49pm
^^ the man speaks from experience here. : )
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