Jeff Rowland

I called Rowland and they suggested going from my 525 to the
625, which is out of my price range. I'm curious if anyone
on Audiogon has done a direct comparison between the 525
with the Capri 2 preamp and the Continuum S2 Integrated amp?

I think that their suggestion is a good one. I have compared the 525 and 625, and the 625 is clearly a step up in performance. It's more refined overall with improved body, depth and dynamics. The 625 has a more effortless presentation when compared to the 525. Of course that improvement comes with a commensurate increase in price.

I should note that I currently own the 625, so my opinion may be biased accordingly. I'm always looking for another upgrade (sound familiar?), but am having trouble finding something significantly better than the 625 without almost doubling its price. There is no end to the madness of this hobby!

Bill_k,
Thanks for the response. There is no doubt in my mind that the 625 mk2 will be a significant upgrade, but for now it's more than I can spend. I'm currently using a Bricasti M1 direct to the 525. I just added a pair of SVS SB 13 Ultra subs and was wondering if adding a preamp would provide better results...that's why I ask is adding a Capri 2 preamp or getting the Continuum S2 Integrated the best option? I'm biased also and will stay with Jeff Rowland amps. I really love the JR sound.

"I just added a pair of SVS SB 13 Ultra subs and was wondering if adding a preamp would provide better results"

Yes, but you have to get the right preamp.

Zd542 is correct, you need to add a suitable quality preamp to improve the sound of running your M1 DAC direct to your amp. Many preamps will actually degrade the sound, so you would be best off if you could audition the exact preamp you're considering in your system before committing to purchase it. Hopefully that is an option available to you.