2. amps-preamps
  3. 187580-166623

another rookie question - preamp or or power amp

I have a decent integrated amp ("decent" - to my ears). SS, 50Watts to 8 Ohms. It  has a preamp output. 

I have been looking at used power amps and preamps in the 2-400 dollar range.  

For example: the Parasound 2125 power amp, the Parasound P3

This is an OR question. Which choice will yield a better improvement,

1) if I put a preamp before my integrated so the integrated acts as the power amp

or 2) if I use my integrated as a preamp to a power amp?

It's also a choice to sell my integrated and save up until I can buy both a power amp and a preamp, but obviously I am itching to try one of the above options. 

My room is 15x13 so I am not sure I need a big power amp (big: 100Watts?)

 

grislybutter
grislybutter OP
3,179 posts
 

@stuartk I understand. Given how "budget" my current amp is, it could be an improvement though - or so I thought.

I already have had a lot of help here and I think I will be on the right track. 

stuartk
2,927 posts
 

@grislybutter

I already have had a lot of help here and I think I will be on the right track.

Best of luck, then, moving forward!  

 

grislybutter OP
3,179 posts
 

@audiotroy yes the NuPrime looks solid! 

lanx0003
864 posts
 

For my secondary system, I use the Parasound NC 2125 V2 with Zpre3. Absolutely love it.  They work together with great synergy.  You did not disclose what IA you have but I believe Parasound 150 wpc will drive your speaker better than your 50 wpc IA as the amp.

shtinkydog
689 posts
 

@grislybutter Are you in L.A.? I have a P3 for FREE if you are.  It's old with a scratched top, but it works!  And the price is right. 

More to discover