2. amps-preamps
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Down sizing

I'm thinking of downsizing. I'd like to replace a Primare pre 32 preamplifier, Musical Fidelity M6 vinyl preamplifier and a vintage Tandberg TR 2060 receiver with a preamplifier that has a phonostage, pre out for a subwoofer and XLR in and out. I'd prefer SS but might consider tubes. I'm presently running my TT to the Musical Fidelity then the Tandberg. My computer goes to the DAC=>Preamp=Power amp. The problem is having to change up the speaker cables when switching back and forth from the Tandberg to the power amp. I want a preamp that can handle the analog vinyl and SS computer sides in one box. I like (near) analytical sound, but meaty and a precise sound stage. I don't care for a warm sound, so as close to neutral as possible. Budget 5K max used. Any suggestions? I've noticed some preamps have "Main Out" (Audio Research SP20, McIntosh C2200). Is that the same as Pre Out? Can I connect a subwoofer to a "Main Out?"

mewsickbuff
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,595 posts
 

Neutral is the signature of the Sanders. Formerly line stage only now with built in phono stage. I would say the Main Out on any preamp should be the same as Pre Out.

No clue why you are moving speaker cables but I use a Solupeak P2 switchbox to select amps for a pair of speakers.

 

 

 

 

soix
9,456 posts
 

You can probably count the number of preamplifiers with really good phono stages on one hand, so you’ll be greatly limiting your options.  Honestly, how much space are you really saving by eliminating a separate phono pre?

mewsickbuff OP
237 posts
 

I have 1 pair of speakers that are connected to the receiver or power amp by bi-wiring, (both receiver and power amp have A+B speaker capabilities). So when I'm spinning vinyl the pathway is:

TT=>phono preamp=>Tandberg Receiver.

When I listen to computer music files the pathway is:

computer=>DAC=>preamp=>Primare A32 power amp.

An all-in-one preamp conveniently combining inputs for the vinyl and digital would negate me having to switch speaker cables just because I wanted to throw on an album after listening to some digital tracks on the computer (or vice versa).

@fuzztone I don't see how the switch box would work with bi-wired speakers. But the Sanders looks interesting.

@soix I'd appreciate it if you could name those few preamps with a good phono stage. As I mentioned earlier, I'd be trading out the new preamp for 3 boxes (preamp, phono preamp, and receiver).

 

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