Preamps that sound like Aguilar DB659?

Eminor3rd · #1 12-12-2010, 07:29 PM

Is it true that Aguilar has discontinued all of their preamps?

I apologize if this is obvious, I'm new to the component-rig game. In fact, I'm still shopping for my first pre.

Tom Bowlus pointed me to Basstasters.com, where I discovered that I really like the DB659. Can you suggest some other options that are similar in tone?

NOTE: I'm only interested in 1U preamps.

Thanks!

JGR · #2 12-12-2010, 07:58 PM

The 659 is a great preamp. I've owned a few others and none really sound like it. You should be able to find one used and for a good price if you keep your eyes peeled.

bThumper38 · #3 12-12-2010, 08:02 PM

Aguilar
DB 680

Eminor3rd · #4 12-12-2010, 08:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JGR

The 659 is a great preamp. I've owned a few others and none really sound like it. You should be able to find one used and for a good price if you keep your eyes peeled.

I suppose I can just be patient

Quote:

Originally Posted by bThumper38

Aguilar
DB 680

This is 2U, right?

tombowlus · #5 12-12-2010, 09:18 PM

The 659 has a pretty unique vibe, and IME/IMHO, it's a good bit different from the DB680. The Trace Elliot V-Type preamp has some of the same charms as the 659, and may be worth checking out.

Eminor3rd · #6 12-13-2010, 06:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tombowlus

The 659 has a pretty unique vibe, and IME/IMHO, it's a good bit different from the DB680. The Trace Elliot V-Type preamp has some of the same charms as the 659, and may be worth checking out.

Interesting, I've never been much into Trace gear. I'm already discovering how different all of this stuff sounds isolated, though.

I'll keep my eyes open, thanks again Tom!