The basic design has remained the same for 25 years, although there has been some small, some big changes in how I've utilised componetry and technological advances as they've become available.
I've always strived for the designs to be state-of-the-art technically , but always mindful that this does not necessarily result in the finest sound.
The purpose of a preamplifier is to invoke realism. A preamplifier must be technically excellent in terms of frequency response, able to drive any power amp, buts it's most important task is to have you believe you a listening to the closest recreation of a performance.
The strongest attribute of the Suprateks are their phase performance which leads to very precise and realistic 3D imaging- this is what provides musical realism.
I'm often told of the almost magical transformation of the sound of Magico speakers when used with a Supratek.
It would seem the Magicos really need a phase coherent preamplifier to get the best out of them, to get them to become multi dimensional and fill a room with music.
I've recently reviewed all of my designs going back many years and after building many prototypes I've made some changes to the basic design which I am very happy with.
3D imaging is even better with even more distinct separation , wider width and deeper depth.
I've also managed to get noise levels to the lowest levels possible with a tube preamplifier.
This helps with the already outstanding dynamics , especially the micro-dynamic performance.
Gain had been decreased by a small amount, but is still fully adjustable.
I like these benefits so much I'm calling the latest range of Suprateks Generation 3 .
For a short while I'm offering a Gen3 Cortese , with moving coil phono stage for $US3000- incredible value when it competes directly against a famous $30,000 phono only stage.
(Yes one of my customers has both and is very happy with the Cortese.)
