Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Fi Evolution Preamplifier (Tube) by toocans

Model:	Evolution
Category:	Preamplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price:	$3,500.00
Description:	Full function, 1
Manufacturer URL:	Not Available

Review by toocans on November 25, 2010 at 12:16:01
IP Address: 69.109.209.48 Add Your Review
for the Evolution

Don Garber's other full function pre amp. (see the other 2 reviews by rgurney and Mr_bill2 for Don's 2b pre amp). There doesn't seem to be much grey area when it comes to Don's gear, it either works for you or it doens't.

The only comment that I could add that get's little or no attention is component synergy. Since you are buying what the maker is hearing (and producing) you might want to be sure a single piece fit's with your system sound wise.

Dynamic and as colorful as the material you feed it (and an unique visual look), it would be hard to duplicate it, especially at these price's.

Also, you don't have to worry about expensive power cords or crazed tube rolling, they don't seem to mke a difference.(I tried)

Product Weakness:	6-7 month wait time. If your other equipment is weak, it will be immediately apparent.
Product Strengths:	Sound quality above reproach, incredible phono stage, amazing build quality, stunning visuals. Craftmanship at it's finest and Don's a pleasure to deal with.

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: Fi 421a
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Fi Evolution
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Thoren's TD124, Rega arm, Benz, MacBook Pro
Speakers: Mitsubishi 2s-208
Cables/Interconnects: 47Labs OTA cable
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Jazz, Rock
Room Size (LxWxH): 14' x 17' x 11'
Room Comments/Treatments: wood and plaster, large painting's
Time Period/Length of Audition: 1 year plus
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): CapnBob Altec 4722 step up trannie
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

Amplifier:	Fi 421a
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Fi Evolution
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Thoren's TD124, Rega arm, Benz, MacBook Pro
Speakers:	Mitsubishi 2s-208
Cables/Interconnects:	47Labs OTA cable
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Jazz, Rock
Room Size (LxWxH):	14' x 17' x 11'
Room Comments/Treatments:	wood and plaster, large painting's
Time Period/Length of Audition:	1 year plus
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	CapnBob Altec 4722 step up trannie
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner