2. amps-preamps
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Set me straight, don't pull punches

Esteemed contributors

 I, a neophyte, present myself as supplicant for knowledge in all aspects of my system.

(Feel free to skip ** sections **, included only to rationalize intent)

**I don't know how much info you want, but know that I have done a fair amount of research and read lots of opinions, but have skipped steps in setting up an intermediate listening rig*

I recently picked up a Peachtree nova300 to replace a Marantz 2238b driving B&W 685 bookshelf speakers and 12" DefTec sub.

I'm having troubles. My TT output is extremely quiet, and running digital files makes the speakers voice timidly - not at all what I expected from 300w. I got much stronger response from the "38w" Marantz.

Are my speakers mismatched? 

**I wanted to have the ability to include my wife in enjoying the set-up, and the Sabre DAC specifically designed for iOS devices removed the fear of vinyl handling, turntable cueing and the like.**

I changed everything at once. I had been using 12 gauge radioshack speaker wire. I upgraded to AudioQuest X2 (directionality running the proper direction) and audioquest bananna clips. 

I have a technics 1300 TT that isn't giving me much volume, which is a huge disappointment, because my main input is a vinyl collection I have been building for a few years.

I thought the peachtree had a dedicated phono input designed specifically for MM cartridges.

I can't find branding anywhere on my cart, but had been under the impression it was MM, not MC.

**I actually found the turntable inside a cabinet I bought that had been sitting outside on a deck in SD for a few seasons, so I'm surprised and pleased it works as well as it does (a little sticking on the speed/pitch adjustment knobs, and 45rpm runs too quick, cannot be slowed further)**

Anyway. I have been putting off buying a pre-amp to reduce extra equipment.

**I inherited an Arcam d9 that I wanted to A/B test against my marantz, but I preferred the simplicity that the peachtree integrated offered.**

I feel like I'm stranded in Wyoming, not included in any audio circles that could help me troubleshoot these issues. Connecting with anyone would be awesome, I'm just hoping this post doesn't go completely unnoticed due to my ignorance. 

Another consideration, I have access to discounted Pro-Ject equipment, so specific direction on the models they offer would be particularly helpful

Thank you for any and all feedback. Try to sell me on something 
 
mpdahl
mpdahl OP
8 posts
 
@gs556 there is a loop functionality where I could attach a DAC or an equalizer.

My only other audio source I have is a marantz 5025B tape deck, which I'll hook up and experiement with different input channels. 

(I had a 5-cd carousel that wouldn't give me anything, so I'm on the prowl there as well)

I'm wondering if running the marantz as the phono input and use the peachtree's much higher watt ceiling headroom would change the sound quality? If it isn't head and shoulders improvement over the Marantz, why include it in the chain at all? 

I'm also switching the speaker wire back to the previous arrangement to see if those make a difference in sound quality. I'll return and report
mpdahl OP
8 posts
 
Ok, it took my wife making adjustments and pushing the buttons the way I SHOULD have to switch from the AUX2 to the phono stage. My issue was impatience, incompetence tinged with insecurity that I could break the input channel if I held it longer than the 5 seconds prescribed in the manual. 

I skimmed the instruction manual, missing the step where I HOLD the aux button UNTIL the indicator switch changes from blue to green, which turns off the digital inputs and uses the separate analog circuitry. I was pressing and holding...incorrectly?

Pivoting...

I hooked up the tape deck, but there is a hum every other time I push the play button, where the DB meter is maxing out and there is a loud buzzing. Do I just need to get the heads cleaned? We have already established that I should hold off on my own alterations, repairs etc until I can apprentice under someone who knows
terry9
2,333 posts
 
Loud buzzing might indicate a ground loop. This is easily solved by an isolation transformer. Prices range from $20 to hundreds. I suggest the same ones I use for digital inputs, made for car audio, which cost $20 for 2 channels: 1st Source GL-100 Ground Loop Isolator.

The GL-100 comes with RCA inputs and outputs, so it is easily inserted into the signal line. Just plug one end into the cassette deck L&R outputs, the other end into the interconnects to the amp.

One of these is good to have around for trouble-shooting, and if it works, you have identified the problem, and can upgrade to Lundahl or Sowter if you feel inclined. But I wouldn’t bother until you go further upmarket.
minkwelder
255 posts
 
According to the instructions, the AUX2/Phono switch merely switches the AUX/Phono input from line level gain to the higher gain needed for an MM cartridge, along with the equalization necessary for proper phono playback. 

I'm assuming that your turntable is now working OK on the AUX2/Phono input and that you have plugged your tape deck into the AUX1/HTB input. You want the AUX1/HTB light to be blue if you intend to control the volume of the tape deck with the Peachtree volume control. 

 
mpdahl OP
8 posts
 
@minkwelder correct! Things have been settled on the phono front. Good catch on the multi-functionality. 

@terry9 I'll make sure to order and integrate. 

this has been the pleasantest troubleshooting in my life!

Thank you all for the advice and feedback. I very much appreciate it
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