2. amps-preamps
  3. 123140-75180

what pre-amps to try

Hello all, I am trying to build a moderate system using used Parasound Halo, JC-1 mono blocks. I think I would like to pair with a tube pre. I get a little confused on the compatibility issues. Some of the specs are greek to me.(impedence} So I am wanting to know what preamps are a good match electronically for the JC=1s. I know sound is completely subjective, just want to avoid incompatible components. I am looking for a list of things to try/consider. Balanced inputs a must. My speakers are Tyler Acoustics Woodmere II, all streaming, HD Tracks or CD(Oppo 105), so no phono necessary. Let's say $3000.00 budget, used if fine, thanks for any suggestions, Mizike.  
mizike
mesch
3,529 posts
 
I agree that the UV-1 is likely another fine candidate,  I failed to mention that as I have never owned or heard one. The LS1 also used 6SN7 tubes.  Also FWIW both are made in the US. And as I consider this, the UV-1 is far less expensive I believe, allowing for some serious tube rolling. In addition, I believe Atma-Sphere can make one designed for your input needs. 

jnovak's avatar
jnovak
436 posts
 
I'm in love with my Classe CP700. What I like is A LOT of detail over many pre's I've tried and it's very versatile ( Two sets of balanced outputs as well as two sets of RCA outputs) Also, mine has a very nice internal phono stage that is no slouch. I know you said you didn't need a phono stage. You never know though and this is a bonus if you want to resell. I see one on Audiogon right now. It doesn't have the internal phono stage. I bought mine for under $3000.00 with one. Happy hunting. Joe
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 

We had a whole very enjoyable day trying different things on Ed (Edgar)Krammer’s (reviewer for 6 moons, Australian hifi and Audio Esoterica) system which consists of an AMR CD-777 flagship CDP a pair of Parasound JC1’s and a pair of Wilson Alexia’s.

Preamps we had on hand were Supratek Grange, Nuforce all discrete flagship Reference P20, and a passive preamp.

All were used via the rca inputs on the JC1’s as we were only using 2mt interconnects and also didn’t want the extra circuitry of balanced inculded the signal path, as the AMR is tube output and TDA1541 convertor and therefore really single ended anyway even though I think it has token balanced outputs.

The one that came out on top was the passive, by quite a margin, for top to bottom transparency, drive, and top (delicacy) to bottom (tight) extension.


Cheers George

mesch
3,529 posts
 
I am thinking that the Classe is SS, not tubed. I believe that mizike is heading in the right direction mating a tube pre to a SS amp. 
herndonb
124 posts
 
Krell Illusion II, awesome!
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