I used a JC-2 preamp for about 2 years and found it to be quiet and transparent sounding. This unit is a good value, especially on the used market. (The BP version is the same, other than adding HT bypass.) In my system, the downside of the JC-2 was its high output level. Even with the gain controls turned all the way down, I couldn’t turn the volume over 10 o’clock without my system playing too loud for my taste. Also, I found it difficult to set the volume where I wanted with the remote, as the changes from the remote were too coarse. The best match I had with the JC-2 was with Parasound’s A21 amp and the input level controls turned down. This allowed me to use more range on the JC-2 volume control. I don’t think you’ll find the output level of a JC-2BP to be too low.
Preamp Recommendations For the Parasound JC 5 Amp
I’m looking to get a high-end solid state preamp that’s on the sonic level as the Pass Labs XP-22 Preamp and X250.8. I’m looking for large soundstage, air, 3-D holographic sound, and detail without sounding analytical.
I feel more sure of the Parasound JC 5 Amp. I’m looking for preamp suggestions, and not sure if the JC 2 BP is the best option for the money.
I do have a Don Sachs DS 2 6SN7-based tube preamp that I can also mate with it. I’d like switching between solid state and tube preamps.
QUESTIONS:
1. How is the Parasound JC 2 BP and JC combination?
2. Does the JC 2 BP have to be turned up high to get decent volume?
3. Does a tube preamp mate well with a JC 5 Amp?
I previously purchased a Pass Labs XP-22 and X250.8. Sonically, it was exactly what I was looking for - refined, detailed, airy, holographic. But the XP-22 had to be turned up 75% to 2 o’clock (75%) position for decent volume levels. Also the XLR connections on the X250.8 wobbled - salesperson said that’s normal. That didn’t inspire confidence, so I returned everything at a $700 loss…. Hopefully, the next solid state purchase will be more pleasant.
Thanks
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- 13 posts total
- 13 posts total