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The Counterpoint SA-5000 stereo tube preamplifier was introduced in 1990 and is known for its hybrid tube/solid-state phono and line stages, delivering powerful dynamics, a realistic soundstage, and very low noise. It accepts both MM and MC cartridges, with a phono stage employing two 6DJ8 tubes and a line stage using dual 6DJ8 tubes. The phono section has two gain stages with passive RIAA equalization, and the line stage is a single stage without loop feedback. Tube stages are followed by solid-state video buffers for improved performance. The phono stage can be configured as a JFET/tube cascode for MC cartridges or a simple tube stage for MM cartridges. The power supply is external and uses vacuum-tube voltage regulation with two 6DJ8/6922 tubes, one 12AX7 for regulation, and one 6CA4 for rectification. Inputs include five line-level inputs plus tape in, with outputs including dual pairs of tape outs and main outs. Additional features include MM loading, tape send disable, main output select, gain trimmers, polarity invert, output level, mono, volume, mute, and power controls. The unit employs a floating subchassis for mechanical isolation. It is highly regarded for its natural, concert-like sound and excellent imaging, creating a soundstage that appears divorced from the speakers. The preamplifier measures approximately 48.3 cm (W) x 13 cm (H) x 32.2 cm (D) and weighs about 12.7 kg, with the external power supply weighing 5.5 kg. It was made in the USA and is considered a high-end, classic tube preamplifier.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The ATC-2's signal-to-noise is 90 dB against the SA5000's 80 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.007%, and its input sensitivity 0.1V RMS against 0.0V RMS. Both share class (Tube).
The Kaitaki's thd is 0.050% against the SA5000's 0.007%, its input sensitivity 0.1V RMS against 0.0V RMS, and its weight 9 kg (20 lbs) against 12.7 kg (28 lbs). Both share signal-to-noise (80 dB).
The SA-T7MK's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the SA5000's 80 dB, its thd 0.001% against 0.007%, and its input sensitivity 0.4V RMS against 0.0V RMS. Both share class (Tube).
The Line 3's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the SA5000's 80 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.007%, its weight 27.5 kg (61 lbs) against 12.7 kg (28 lbs), and its width 480 mm against 483 mm.
McIntosh C2300
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