Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Fi 2b Preamplifier (Tube) by Mr

Model:	2b
Category:	Preamplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price:	$8200
Description:	Full line plus MM/MC preamp
Manufacturer URL:	Not Available

Review by Mr_bill2 on September 07, 2010 at 14:42:58
IP Address: 98.169.158.198 Add Your Review
for the 2b

Don Garber's new Fi 2b preamp is based on the 6922 tube and 6AV5GA tube rectification. It's a two piece unit that includes a dual mono outboard power supply. Architecturally it's classic Fi/Don Garber, so if you haven't seen it before you buy, better do so. You will either love it or hate it, I personally think it's a stunning visual piece of art but others might disagree.

As for what it sounds like, well the best way to describe it is tubes on steroids(meaning the best virtues of solid state have been blended in to achieve perfection in tube preamp topology). Fat and bloated does not apply here nor does honey colored syrupy vocals. What you do get is accurate and precise within a backdrop of a natural sounding stage that gets me as close to live music as I have ever come across.

As for Fi the company(i.e., Don Garber), I find one of the most important considerations one has to take into account when making a purchase of this magnitude is to consider the company customer service philosophy and the people (or man) behind the scenes. Here Don excels in spades, not only in my opinion but for many out there that know Don personally or have had the pleasure to experience one of his products and customer service. Products come factory direct and Don stands behind each one!

Lastly, I have been a Fi fan for a while, this is my second Fi preamp and most likely the last one I will ever need unless Don can surpass this but I really can't see how.

Product Weakness:

Limited MC phono stage adjustments for Gain, Impedance loading & Capacitance loading but personalized settings other than that of the factory settings are offered by the manufacturer for better cartridge compatibility if needed. I found Don very much willing to accommodate any request I had during the ordering process which brings me to another point, it takes a while for these pieces to arrive at your door, each one is handmade by Don himself, a one man show if you will, so be forewarned patience is a virtue here.

Product Strengths:

It's musicality and listen-ability. Ease of use and functionality. Mono/Stereo switching option. Optional MM version as well as line stage only models are available at lower pricing.

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: Classe CAM 350 monos
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Fi 2b
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Sony SCD-1/Basis 1400 w/Vector 4 & Benz Ruby 3 OA/ Scott 310-E tuner
Speakers: Eminent Technology VIIIb
Cables/Interconnects: TG Audio High Purity
Music Used (Genre/Selections): All types. Vinyl & CD
Room Size (LxWxH): 21' x 17.5' x 9'
Room Comments/Treatments: Wall to wall over plywood&concrete floors, painted sheetrock walls.
Time Period/Length of Audition: about 6 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): 2 dedicated 20 amp lines
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

Amplifier:	Classe CAM 350 monos
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Fi 2b
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Sony SCD-1/Basis 1400 w/Vector 4 & Benz Ruby 3 OA/ Scott 310-E tuner
Speakers:	Eminent Technology VIIIb
Cables/Interconnects:	TG Audio High Purity
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	All types. Vinyl & CD
Room Size (LxWxH):	21' x 17.5' x 9'
Room Comments/Treatments:	Wall to wall over plywood&concrete floors, painted sheetrock walls.
Time Period/Length of Audition:	about 6 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	2 dedicated 20 amp lines
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner