2. amps-preamps
  3. 126177-72001

What matching pre-amp to use?

I own a used McCormack DNA-125 amp, new Goldenear Triton II loudspeakers and Transparent MusicWave Speaker Cables. I mostly listen to R & B, Jazz Fusion, some Electronica and Bossa

Nova. Can anyone suggest a preamp that will mate with the above components? I am not an audiophile but do enjoy listening to music from other than mid-fi components. Someone suggested that the CJ

Classic 2 SE Linestage Preamp would be suitable since he said that the Goldenears would exhibit harshness and the CJ would even that out. Would I lose any of the bass (which is why I liked the

Goldenears) by using the CJ? My budget is $2K for a pre-amp. Also, any suggestions for a CD

Player and Interconnects?

coco-nino
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
Why not get a McC preamp? I have a Microline Drive and the RLD-1, both are stock and sound great, they are both upgradable by SMc- a company I can't recommend more.
Actually, there is a MicroLine Drive on Agon that has been upgraded. 
As far as a CD player, I have a Rega Apollo and a McCormack Transport, both perform well. Though I have not been using them, as I seem to be loving Streaming Music through the PC.
As far as cables, I am using mostly Zu audio. I like their 'open' sound as well as their affordability. Zu is on Agon and Ebay, and you can get some of the earlier models for very reasonable prices.

czarivey
5,946 posts
 
I agree with McC preamps. They outclass higher priced ones easy.
coco-nino OP
2 posts
 

Thank you everyone for your responses, however, can anyone comment on my question on how much/whether the CJ Classic SE2 will affect the bass response from the GE's?  Also, there is a refurb unit available of the McC RLD-2 for $1,600. Can anyone point out the differences in sound that I will hear across the entire freq. response from both units?  Please keep in mind that I was told that the GE's will be more fatiguing to listen to in the long term if I purchased the RLD-2. 

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