Mark Levinson preamp no. 38 vs 38s vs 380 vs 380s

Alberto, everything is all explained above. Read what Abstract7 says on top on 4-22-02 that it is useful to pay more for better performance but that is up to you. I already e-mailed you a copy of a review on this 380S from Fi magazine as it's all explained in the review, did you read it yet? You can see it for yourself on the Marklevinson.com website which will explain to you everything your asking in your above question. The 380S was dramatically improved over the 38,38S, and the 380. Uriah

Hi Tod,

If you have FPB200C you should buy the Krell KCT preamp and use Cast cables. It will sound better than all the Mark Levinson preamps you mentioned. I had the 380S and the KCT blows it away in every aspect.

Peter

How would a 380S match up with a BRYSTON 4B3 amp ?

I had  an ML 38 and upgraded it to 380S status ($1500. ) back in the day.  Well worth the upgrade.

Still have the 380S . Its very quiet, very neutral.  If that is what you are looking for in a preamp, a used one is a great choice for the current going rates.

I recently added a Transparent Powerwave to both protect my 2 front end components and possibly increase SQ .  It has  given the preamp new clairity and a bigger soundstage, better bass.  I am no longer thinking about a new preamp. The ML 38/39 series have great egonomics, too.

I've owned both the 38S and 380S Preamps.... I could discern very little to no difference in sound quality.  Future owners would thrilled to own either.  The are excellent controllers with wonderful transparency.  The stated improvements from fan boys and Levinson are mere marketing ploys.