2. amps-preamps
  3. 123740-78926

Which amp/preamp/integrated for GoldenEar Triton 5's

I just purchased a pair of GoldenEar Triton 5's. I have an old Adcom amp GFA-545, but the Adcom preamp that went with it soudns muddy on one channel. Tried to get it fixed but it's still not right, so I either need a new preamp, or a new integrated. Found a great deal on Peachtree's 220SE, but am weighing that against buying something like the Parasound P5 preamp and keeping my Adcom going. Any advice much appreciated, and doesnt have to stay with those 2 choices, but my budget can't extend past $1500, and I'd prefer if it stayed closer to $1k. Thanks for your thoughts....
dooner188
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,497 posts
 
Find a Modwright SWL 9.0 sig ($1200-1500 used). This is a tubed linestage preamp and it will make your Adcom sound very sweet indeed. I used one on my Adcom GFA 555 and I was very impressed. The pre amp is a KEY component, keep your amp and do it a favor by adding a proper preamp. The Adcom preamps do not sound good.

Matt M
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
There are many potential answers here, but try auditioning an NAD C 375BEE. It is surprisingly refined, powerful (150 wpc), stable, poised, transparent, dimensional, you name it. The preamp section is very musical and throws a big sound stage. Its amp section is quite a step up from an old 545. The C375 BEE is at the top of your budget ($1500) but solves your preamp problem while dramatically updating your power section with a great dose of integrated synergy to boot. If that’s too much, try the NAD C 356BEE. Same basic signal path, a little over half the power (80wpc) and price ($799).
mesch
3,481 posts
 
Given the age of your amp and the fact you have indicated an interest in an integrated amp, I think at your budget an integrated would be a wise choice. There are many in your price range to choose from, and, as I am not familiar with the Triton 5s and power requirements depend on speaker impedance, room size, and loudness preference, I am hesitant to make suggestion.  I agree with the NAD suggestion as one possible choice. Can you provide speaker specs, room size, and listening preference info?  
dooner188 OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for all your responses. I had considered the NAD's, but was a bit put off by their so-so reviews on whathifi and the number of choices they offer. And auditioning will likely mean either a long drive, or a buy and test with the possibility of return (which is where I am with the Peachtree). Would you get the NAD's with the DAC included, or use an external?
Mesch, the Tritons are supposed to be relatively easy to drive, and are in a living room/dining/kitchen area that is 20x40. I listen to a wide range of music and find I do enjoy turning it up if it sounds good!
Any ideas on what the general complaint is with Peachtree products? I know they're not at big as someone like NAD, but they get great reviews from what I've seen. And so far, it sounds pretty good to my ears (but with nothing to compare to...)
Thanks again for your help.

mesch
3,481 posts
 
 I have heard some triton models however not the 5s.  I thought then to be very good. And had heard they are easy to drive. I assume the 5s are totally passive, requiring power to woofers. 

Are you willing to buy used? If so, I have had great success using the AG  marketplace. Also, what are your sources?

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