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Matching preamp to amp

This probably has been discussed before, but I am wandering how
important it is to match the sensitivity of the amp to the output of
the preamp when choosing new equipment.
I am using a CAT preamp which has about 7volts of output and want to
drive my ARC d70 tube amp, which apparently needs only 0.95 volt for rated
output! What can i expect and is there anything one can do to better match outputs/inputs when this type of inequity applies?
128x128daveyf
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Daveyf, Read your question again then read my response. The CAT has the same output as Audio Research preamps that matches your D-70. Actually the ARC SP-8 is a matching preamp for your D-70 and has a maximum output of 60 volts, but you won't be using the 60 volts you will be attenuating your source.

Did you try the CAT and D-70? Maybe you should try it and let us know what happens.
daveyf's avatar
daveyf OP
2,965 posts
 
Thanks Rrog, I haven't yet tried the CAT/ARC combo, but should be able to next
week.I will post as to the results.My current setup of CAT/Jeff Rowland model 8 works very well together, although I can set the input impedance on the model 8 to accommodate the CAT.

BTW, Marakanetz I agree that the CAT rules..:0)
After having listened to many preamps, both ss and tube, the CAT is here
to stay.
daveyf's avatar
daveyf OP
2,965 posts
 
Well guys, I hooked up the ARC today and it worked very well with the CAT.
Unfortunately after about 20 minutes there was a VERY loud cracking sound
and i think one of the tubes ARC'ed ( pun intended).( Luckily I managed to mute the output before it blew my speakers...whew!) At first, I thought it could have been a bad cap, but my tech seems to think it was a tube gone bad..:0(
Oh well, back to the drawing board...
Any ideas as to the problem?
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