2. amps-preamps
  3. 139773-120971

Need help picking PreAmp

Hello, I have been reading Audio reviews for the last few months, I'm really new to the audio world and just started to build a home system.  It is not really high-end but I want a decent system to learn and then upgrade as I learn more.  Let me tell you what I have so far and then you can give me some advice.

Speakers:  B&W 805N
Amps: Adcom GFA-555 II (completely redone and upgraded) looking to get a second one to run bridged

That is it.  Like I said, I'm just starting.  What I want to do is stream in digital music.  Can you help me in choosing a preamp.  I was thinking of either ADCOM GFP-750 or Rotel RC-1570.  I was not looking to go tubes until I learn more.

Can some of you help me.  One is a older preamp and one is a newer one......There is no substitute for experience and I think I have come to the conclusion that I can read all I want, I need advice from an expert.



coolcash1
maritime51's avatar
maritime51
1,288 posts
 
Do you mean the Rotel RC 1590?  I have a three month old 1590 to sell. It is far too complex for me. 
coolcash1 OP
2 posts
 
The RC-1570 is the little brother.  I was looking to spend somewhere in the $700-$800 range.  Don't want to spent too much until I know more.  I'm partially building a system and learning all at the same time.  There is much to learn.
maritime51's avatar
maritime51
1,288 posts
 
$1000 would take you to a much higher level. 😄
reubent
7,039 posts
 
An Adcom GFP-750, at a good price, in good condition, would be a nice pick. It was very highly regarded as an Audiophile quality pre-amp when it was introduced. I've never owned one, but I do remember reading the very favorable review, comparing it to much more expensive brands.
soix
9,659 posts
 
A GFP-750 would be a great choice, but it's old and had reliability issues even back in its heyday, so proceed with caution. 

Personally, I wouldn't double down on the GFA-555.  The one you have should provide enough power for the 805s. If you're looking to improve amp performance I'd sell the 555 and upgrade to something better from this millennium (perhaps something from Classe, which is known to pair well with B&W speakers).  But that's me. 

I assume you have the original N805s, and if so you don't want anything that will irritate those metal tweets.  There's a nice Krell KAV-250p available here now for $750 that may fit the bill, and it should pair nicely with your amp.  Best of luck. 
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