Klimax DSM/Katalyst into tube preamp

[lldd]

Has anyone tried using the KDSM as a DAC/streamer into a stand-alone tube pre-amp? I'm considering Luxman, Allnic, and Shindo preamps in the $20k or so range. The DSM is so detailed that, while I'd like to incorporate some of the attributes of tubes, I don't want to do anything that might reduce the resolution. Amp is a Luxman M900u.

 

[Lurch]

In the current economic climate with your budget, dealers should be climbing over themselves to offer you a home demo of whatever takes your fancy. With $20k to play with the world's your oyster, maybe demo some kit where there is a used option for sale online to get some serious bang for your buck. Whatever you do, don't rush and let your ears decide.

 

[Psilonaught]

If you are looking at high end preamps you should shortlist the KR Audio P135. It uses the type 45 DHT tube and is well regarded in reviews. It also has a solid state power supply to maintain good resolution. I have one and it is astonishingly transparent and neutral.

The dealer GPoint has them available for home demo.

 

[Psilonaught]

Your budget also allows for the atma-sphere MP-1 which is supposed to be amazing, but no idea if you can get a home demo here in the UK.

http://www.atma-sphere.com/en/mp-1.html

 

[antonio66]

I'd be tempted to ask if there are any Wammer's nearby who could bring a decent valve pre round just to see what sort of difference one would make if I were you.

 

[Nopiano]

Has anyone tried using the KDSM as a DAC/streamer into a stand-alone tube pre-amp? I'm considering Luxman, Allnic, and Shindo preamps in the $20k or so range. The DSM is so detailed that, while I'd like to incorporate some of the attributes of tubes, I don't want to do anything that might reduce the resolution. Amp is a Luxman M900u.

To be blunt, putting the newest KSDM through a valve anything would definitely be reducing the resolution. The thing you say you don’t want to do! The typical noise alone would probably reduce the resolution to somewhat below 14bits in my estimation. But if you want pre-CD quality then you know what to do.

Quite another thing is that you might like the colouration, richness, harmonics - call it what you will - from a valve preamp. But be assured the resolution will be sacrificed.

 

[lldd]

Nopiano, thanks for the insights. Having not yet heard the combo, this was my concern. Will still proceed with auditions, as the other virtues of tubes you mention are also attractive. Like everything else in this hobby, deciding which trade off sounds best remains the challenge.

 

[Nopiano]

Nopiano, thanks for the insights. Having not yet heard the combo, this was my concern. Will still proceed with auditions, as the other virtues of tubes you mention are also attractive. Like everything else in this hobby, deciding which trade off sounds best remains the challenge.

You wouldn’t be the first person to insert a preamp that isn’t strictly necessary because they prefer the sound. It’s entirely subjective at this level, so long as there’s sufficient output to drive your amp or active speakers.

Please keep us updated on what you try and decide.