Quote Originally Posted by manlystanley
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Here's a discussion I had about building a Aikdio preamp:http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/tubes...then-what.html

At this time, I'm leaning towards doing the Aikdio, for the following reasons:

-- Always wanted to hear what the 'tube sound was'

-- Absolutely *TONS* of reviews and comments on the net. All of them very possible. It seems that the Aikdio does not have a real strong tube sound, but it is very clear and detailed. (e.g. http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/am...14/140684.html ).

--Tons of community support.

-- Actually cheaper then the Chinese knockoffs.

-- Very little support and reviews of of what the Chinese knockoffs sound like.
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Well, well, Stan. You've been very busy indeed with your research.

Seeing a decent use manual as for the Aikido is very confidence-inspiring for non-electo engineer like me. Nevertheless I wouldn't be interested in a preamp for soley for the reason than good support.

Personally I'm stilling leaning to ESP's s/s preamp (for which, however, there is excellent support, BTW; see the description HERE). I might combine it with a DIY Gene remote control and case.

Respecting DIY Gene, a lot of the negative vibs seem to center around his alleged rip-offs of other people's designs. On the point, first, I haven't heard any credible accusations of actual patent or copywrite violations. Secondly, given no legal violations, I really don't care how flagrant his clones are if the quality is decent and the prices are low. And, for sure, DIY Gene's prices are most compeditive and he has a good eBay reputation.

If I were looking for a tube preamp, I think I'd look for a "tubey" classic design, and DIY Gene's Marantz 7 clones looks like a bargoon at $295, HERE, for the complete preamp including case and remote control. ...