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How to fix my preamp dilemma

My NAD integrated succumbed to old age and I found a Parasound Zamp3/Zpre2 combo on Ebay and pulled the trigger. Even this expenditure was somewhat controversial in my marital landscape, some people just don't understand audio fidelity doesn't grow on trees! For <$400, I couldn't have been happier, everything was great......but 8 months in the preamp started switching between channels and has a loud humming noise that seems like it's coming from the transformer, it powers on but is unresponsive.

From here I could use some advice from the knowledgeable, I'm not sure fixing the Zpre2 is money well spent, my first inclination was to find a used Zpre3, but there aren't any around. What seems more attainable at a reasonable price is a used Schiit Saga+, or an oldler Adcom, is it a bad idea to jump ship to another manufacturer given that the Zamp/Zpre are likely designed to function together?
sturdy
axpert's avatar
axpert
124 posts
 
If you aren't sure what to do with PARASOUND, who I feel is an excellent company and would do everything possible to help, first I would contact them and find out if they can determine the issue and give you an estimate. They may have an authorized repair dealer or facility in your area. If it seems too much then stop there.
Look into the SCHIIT preamps. A lot of sound quality and tech for the money
boomerbillone
358 posts
 
Hello Sturdy  Are you a handy guy? Build the Akitika preamp kit and enjoy a very fine sound indeed. I've got a used Marantz 7T. It's available.
dynacohum
651 posts
 
1. Fix the Parasound...least cost probably and gets you back to where you were happy.
2. Schiit does indeed make fantastic gear for paltry dollars.
3.  Akitika is also a terrific value, but has way more features than you likely need and if you deck it out with headphone amp and phono, it adds up.
4. Used Adcom...nope.  they are getting on in years, and are easily bettered by the above.
dinov's avatar
dinov
845 posts
 
Bad capacitor (s),  if you open it you may see one that may be bulging or leaking. This would be the obvious sign. I think it might worth repairing. Just my opinion if you like the pre. 
mesch
3,523 posts
 
Spotify downloads, via what device? A DAC. I am asking because you might get by using a passive preamp.
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