RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
This is a fair ask rather than a steal, assuming it’s the OmegaStar/Omega series preamp and not a misidentified variant. I can’t pin down a clean percentile for this exact model from the available data, but US$469 sits in the zone that usually looks reasonable for a well-kept Audio by Van Alstine preamp, especially if the unit is confirmed working and cosmetically decent.
What makes it worth a look is the brand’s long-standing reputation for serious value engineering: AVA gear is typically built to sound clean, dynamic, and unfussy, with real parts quality behind the bargain-audio pricing. If this one is original-owner, recently serviced, or comes with the right power supply and accessories, that strengthens the buy. At this price, I’d mainly want confidence on function, channel balance, and noise floor rather than expecting a trophy piece.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Audio by Van Alstine (AVA) traces its roots to over 50 years ago, when Frank Van Alstine founded the company in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, USA. A self-taught audio enthusiast sparked by a teacher's component system in 7th grade, Van Alstine built a legacy on engineering simplicity and musical integrity, assembling gear with skilled U.S. technicians who prioritize true high fidelity. Though Frank passed away in January following a short illness, AVA endures, upholding his vision of state-of-the-art performance without excess.
The brand specializes in complete, synergistic high-fidelity systems, excelling in amplifiers—from compact monoblock power amps like the DVA M225, which employ a unique pure differential SET design, to integrated control amplifiers such as the Synergy series and stereo models like the NP1 delivering 55 watts into 8 ohms. Their lineup emphasizes straightforward, award-winning electronics that deliver exceptional sound at accessible prices, often integrating seamlessly for full-system builds.
AVA holds a respected niche among discerning hi-fi buyers as a boutique American maker of high-end yet value-driven gear, free of audiophile hype. Known for diminutive yet potent amplifiers praised in specialist reviews, it appeals to those seeking reliable, musical excellence over flashy marketing, backed by direct expert consultation from real people.
See all Audio by Van Alstine listings on RADAR.
