Full-function TU-8500 preamp (tube line stage + SS phono MM/MC) from Elekit, professionally assembled(WBT solder)by North American Distributor (Victor Kung in British Columbia). This custom version includes Mundorf Mcap supreme coupling caps, Amtrans Carbon resistors and upgraded op-amp (TI2227P). I paid $615 (add $150 for professional assembly).I’m switching to a headphone-centric system because of closeness of neighbors (see ad for Gallo Reference 3.0 and Gallo amp), but I loved the versatility/sound of this preamp. Purchased 10 months ago. This can be the centerpiece in a more modest system or a specialist in a more expensive setup as your system grows. For instance, I did not use the TU-8500’s phono stage (I have an EAR 834p) but rather as tube (2 x 12au7) line stage with Red Dragon monoblocks and Chord Qute DAC. The gain is switchable: 3x or 1x. At 1x, the TU-8500 switches in parallel resistors to decrease global feedback. Stock GE tubes are OK, but the Elekit really responded to experimentation – I ended up with Mullard 4024. For much more detail, please see review by DoctorJohn Cheaptubeaudio (http://cheaptubeaudio.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-elekit-tu-8500-full-function.html): “Based on my experience with the TU-875, the unit deserves lavish attention. Few things have excited me more recently.” Specs
Stock tube: NOS 5965A X 2 (option :12AU7 x 2pcs)
OP-amp: NJM2068DD x 2pcs
INPUT/OUTPUT terminal: Phono IN x 1
LINE IN : 3 (3.5mm stereo jack(LINE3 priority) x 1)
PRE OUT x 1
Power voltage: AC100, 115, 200, 230V
IEC standard, 3P inlet
Rated current: 8W
Dimensions: W252 x H73 D270 mm
Weight: Approx.3.1kg (when assembled, excluding power cord) [Line amp]
Max output voltage: 22Vrms (1kHz)
Gain: x3.1(9.8dB), x1.15(1.2dB)
Frequency response (-3dB): 2Hz – 70kHz / 2Hz – 280kHz
SN ratio(IHF-A): 122dB / 129dB [Equalizer amp]
Cartridge: MM(Low) / MC(High) – Select by switching
Max output voltage: 7.4V rms (1kHz)
Gain (1kHz): [MM]37dB / [MC]63dB
SN ratio (IHF-A): [MM]108dB / [MC]88dB
Input resistance: [MM]50kohm / [MC]100ohm
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