2. amps-preamps
  3. 150175-134479

Best budget preamp for my entry level system?

Greetings everyone. I need some input on the selection of a pre-amplifier.

After years of making the most of and enjoying my existing budget system, I'm kicking in a few dollars to upgrade my system. I'm currently using a Marantz 2215B receiver, a Pioneer PL-550 turntable, a pair of Boston Acoustic CR-9's, an old junky JBL sub, and a bluetooth adapter to connect to my i-phone for streaming audio....

So far I have purchased the following replacement / upgrade components: Zu Audio Omen Dirty Weekend Speakers, and a Emotiva UPA-200 Amplifier.

>>> Any recommendations on a pre-amplifier? I'm definitely thinking pre-owned, and something around $300. Would want to connect my existing turntable, and a good quality CD player to it in the future. Also like to use my I-phone as a source as well through either a bluetooth adapter, or plugging in directly. I mostly listen to classic rock and rock.

Thank you, any feedback provided would be greatly appreciated!

Rene

barkeyzee1
barkeyzee1 OP
41 posts
 
213runnin; thanks for the feedback. In general I agree with your comments. However, in this case I did purchase the speakers first, and then pursued the purchase of a modest preamp so that I could try the emotiva amp with the Zu’s. The NAD preamp was short money, and to be honest it sounds pretty damn good.

i do like the Schiit audio stuff, as well as peachtree stuff. Will most likely go in the direction of buying something different after the holidays. Bottom line, the Zu’s sound great, that was a great purchase.

Thanks for everyone’s feedback and guidance! 
mcreyn
293 posts
 
Barkeyzee1

The important thing is you are happy with your system.  Go enjoy.  
skywachr
125 posts
 
"Barkeyzee1

The important thing is you are happy with your system. Go enjoy."

Amen.
chrispdx
10 posts
 
Sounds like a rewarding process for the OP. Pardon the late response, but the low-hanging fruit for your next upgrade is to ditch the Bluetooth and never look back (unless you have one with the latest greatest BT tech, like the iFi Zen Blue) -- get yourself a dedicated streamer/DAC or a wifi receiver/DAC, of which there are plenty of affordable options, the Audioengine B-Fi being among the best.

Or since you have an iPhone, get the most bang for your buck by finding a used Apple TV (up to 3rd generation has optical output) or a last-generation Apple Airport Express (MC414LL/A), which has a built-in DAC and 3.5mm analog output AND optical output through the same 3.5mm port (https://www.kenrockwell.com/apple/airport-express-audio-quality-2014.htm).
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