I'm still using my Technics SU A6 MK2 pre which is a great piece but eventually I want it to go back with its Technics amp for another set-up in my drum room. I've really decided I want one of those db systems pre-amps. I have an ebay search for one. A nice one did come up last month for about $260 if I remember correctly and sold in less than an hour- I was away from my phone and laptop and missed it. So if I'm patient I'll get one for around $250. And it's not like I don't have a really nice pre to use right now so no reason not to wait for a great deal to come my way.
I haven't been fully employed since 2009 so I have to be careful. I patch together a living from various enterprises (that sounds shady-haha). I've been told I'll need a new furnace soon. Not as much fun as buying audio equipment unless it's below zero outside so I really have to be a grown-up and not get carried away by the fun toys![/QUOTE
I hear you about watching the pennys and that's hard to do in Canada since they've been abolished. It sounds at least that you live in a house. But, being a drummer, where else can you jam conveniently. I used to play bass and carting that stuff around was brutal. My place is a 1BR condo and what I've got stuffed in it is bad enough, I shudder to think what I'd have if there was more space. Can anyone say "HOARDER"?
Those dB System pre's do look intriguing, they're so spartan inside. I guess the philosophy is "a straight wire with gain".
I quote a friend of mine a lot lately. He said once "I'm so broke, I can't afford to pay attention". Almost everything I've gotten in the last couple of years electronics wise has been in need of serious help but therefore cheap. So far, and with "Forum Assistance", I won more than I lost. I have my second 3 head cassette deck apart and may be able to make it work again. The APT Holman preamp I got in June is just waiting on a new power switch then it's done.
I keep trying to stay away from places I might encounter this stuff but it's not easy - habits of
a lifetime, addictions are hard to break, etc., etc. Gotta do some serious deck clearing myself one of these days.