Calling themselves the “Preamp Specialist”, the Rhumba Extreme 1.3 is the “sweetspot” in their preamp lineup. Sitting just below their flagship $10,750 Rhythm and above the Rhumba 1.3 which sells for $4,500, the Rhumba Extreme 1.3 shares some trickled down technology from the Rhythm like its auto biasing circuitry. And for the $3,000 extra over the non-Extreme Rhumba 1.3, premium caps, a dual-mono power supply (which they patented), blue LED marker on the volume knob and brass feets are equipped in this Extreme version. Preamp uses two 12AU7 which tube rollers will be happy to know are easily switchable by just lifting the acrylic cover on the top. Previous owner ordered his unit with the optional Brimar tubes which cost a bit more instead of the standard Mullard tubes and is renown for their smoother warmer mids and sweeter highs. Fuses were also upgraded to Audio Magic’s M-1 fuses which cost $300 for the pair (stock factory fuses will be included). All Backert Labs preamps are hand made in the USA. Remote controls volume only.
Cosmetically, the preamp looks very good. Minor scuff marks here and there but nothing major. Original box and manual are included. This unit is a factory original Rhumba Extreme 1.3 and not an upgraded Rhumba 1.2.
