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Entry level Krell Evolution 222 preamp and 302 power amp
Reader Mike Agee asks: "I'd like to hear about great audio products that have managed to go under-reviewed in the audio press. I realize there are many reasons why this might happen, from manufacturer reluctance [to submit review samples] to bad timing in the marketplace, but we all know there are a real winners out there that never made a recommended list."
Aragon Palladium monoblock amplifier. It originated with Mondial Designs, then morphed cosmetically after Klipsch acquired the company. Sadly, now out of production. Straightforward, bulletproof design. Great sound at a reasonable price.
Super high gain can handle any super low output moving coil cart. Adjustable capacitance. Adjustable impedance. Adjustable gain levels in eight different settings. Compatible with just about everything out there and will make it sing. Tube musicality. $500. Amazing value... Why don't all phono pres have these features???
Everytime I think I have found the limit of my BP-25 preamp I realize it is never the thing holding back my system. Thus I have never upgraded the damn thing. It is class A output. It has balanced ins and outs. It is unbreakable and has a 20 year warrantee. Show me any preamp as well laid out and musical sounding and I will eat my words. My god some preamps don't even have a balance control anymore. How do guys get them to focus the soundstage at all? Why aren't all preamps this well designed? A huge value for the money.