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Suggestion for preamp - Spendor's & Cary

I have moved from an integrated amp (Creek 5350 SE and/or modified Scott 299B) to separates. I purchased a Cary CAD 808 (Rocket 88) and need some help with choosing a pre-amp. Speakers are Spendor SP 9/1’s. I am presently using a borrowed Luxman tube pre-amp (I have to give that back) I like the Luxman but don’t have anything to compare it to. I find I sometimes push the volume pretty far. I listen to everything but mostly folk, rock, acoustic blues. I like acoustic guitar music with simple arrangements and I like to occasionally get the blood stirring with something that really jumps.

I love the detail and soundstage I have heard from tubes but don’t feel as though I have realized the capabilities of the large Spendors with their 12” drivers. Spendors are 90db efficient.

Price range about $1,000.00 or less.

Thanks in advance for thoughtful comments and advice.
shuntz
newbee
4,767 posts
 
You think you haven't realized the capabilities of the Spendor's. In exactly what regard?

If you are happy with the detail and soundstage you now have then what else exists other the power? Do you listen at high volume?

FWIW Cary tube amps, if they err they probably err on the warm side of the spectrum. I had initially thought you might find this so and want a tubed pre-amp with a more crisp tone to compensate. Perhaps you just need a more powerfull amp, tube or SS, OR the Spendors just don't have a bass capabilities you thought. They might not be the latest word in eithr depth or tightness.

If you're looking for 'power' you'll not find it in a pre-amp. If you're looking to tighten up the bass and more crisp sound all around there are some good possibilities in your price range.

Comments?
shuntz OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for your thoughts Newbee,

I normally listen at a moderate volume but occasionally listen loud. With the combination I am using (Cary & Luxman - both tubed) I turn the volume up 3/4 of the way. (for loud) I'm just not used to that. I think I can adjust.

Otherwise your assessment is well put. "tighten up the bass and more crisp sound" without losing detail and soundstage.

Suggestions are welcome. Tube or SS.

Thanks

kt_88
242 posts
 
I don't think the Cary your using is going to do the trick if your looking for gut wrenching bass, or if you want to tun it up and have the music blow your hair back. Your only pumping 40 watts into those big Spendors. But if you like the amp then I would look for either a ss pre or a pre that employees a 6922 tube.

88
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