Audiophile preamps - What should you get for $30,000?

In this video, I take a deep dive into what makes a $30,000 moving coil preamp truly worth its price tag. Inspired by a recent audio scandal (shoutout to Mend It Mark for his role in exposing some bad behaviour in the industry — links to my earlier videos below), I started wondering: what should a high-end audiophile preamp deliver to justify such an investment?

I’ll explore what genuinely premium audio performance means—distortion-free sound, an extended frequency response, and noise levels that approach the theoretical limits of physics. But that's just the start. From the power supply and its role in delivering pristine power, to the components inside, their careful selection, and the craft of circuit board design—everything should reflect the pinnacle of engineering.

I’ll also discuss aesthetics, both inside and out: CNC-milled cases, hidden fasteners, vibration isolation, and finishes that scream luxury. And yes, we’ll touch on that elusive “feel-good factor” that comes from owning something truly special—whether it’s the designer’s reputation, brand heritage, or personalised customer service.

So, is $30,000 for a preamp ever justified? Let's break it down together. And as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts—whether you already own high-end gear, dream about it, or just enjoy the discussion. Let me know in the comments!

Links to related videos:
1. My first video exposing the scandal - https://youtu.be/93QlQN_1yUA]
2. Why talking about this scandal is risky - https://youtu.be/XWIdMjG-TCU

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoy the content!

DISCLAIMER - The preamp images used in the video and thumbnail are AI generated and are not intended to represent any actual equipment.

CREDITS
UK Registered Designs Act 1949 - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Geo6/12-13-14/88
Mend It Mark - https://www.youtube.com/@MendItMark
Tom Evans - https://www.audiodesign.co.uk/
Mains cable - https://www.crayon-audio.com/
Lyra Atlas - https://lyraanalog.com/atlas.php
57 Chevy - No machine-readable author provided. Junglecat assumed (based on copyright claims). No machine-readable source provided. Own work assumed (based on copyright claims) CC BY-SA 3.0

00:00 Introduction
01:32 Fabulous audio performance
02:56 Power supply
04:21 Components
06:00 Circuit board
08:12 The case
10:24 Feelgood factor
12:39 Wrap

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Disclaimer: Videos on this channel may include affiliate links and may feature software that has been received free of charge with an NFR (not for resale) licence, equipment that has been loaned or donated by a manufacturer or distributer, or equipment that has been bought for less than full retail price.

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