2. amps-preamps
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Levinson 380S or Hovland 100?

I've recently migrated from primarily HT to 2-channel. I just added a Sony 777ES SACD player to my system, which consists of Aerial 7B's driven by an EAD Powermaster 2000 amp (400 watts/ch). Interconnects are Harmonic Tech Pro Silway MkII.

While I still enjoy HT, 2-channel is now taking up 90% of my time and interest. Now I must find a preamp to go with the SACD player. I've never owned tube gear, but have read tons of reviews and opinions regarding it's unique sound. Here's my question. . .

In the $6,000-$7,000 price range, what are your opinions and suggestions? I'm leaning toward the Levinson 380S. I feel comfortable with the fact that it's SS and I am familiar with the Levinson reputation for quality. Is this unit in the same league with the preamps mentioned in the previous "Hovland-pre thread?

I just read the Stereophile review on the CJ 17LS, and this could be in the running as well. Again, I'm inexperienced in the tube world, and don't want to be a slave to maintenance, tube replacement and such. Or are today's units virtually maintenance free?

Any first-hand info and opinions will be greatly appreciated. I love my SACD player, and want to be sure I'm getting the very best out of it I can.

Thanks,

Ken
kenl
beemer
444 posts
 
IMHO, yer barkin' up the wrong tree with your two candidates. Have a listen to a BAT VK50SE, and your search will be over. If you are not amazed and your soul stirred by the result, come to Massachusetts and you can kick me!
That's how sure I am about this. I bought one, and 5 of my audiophile friends bought them after they heard mine.

Paul
pops
2,275 posts
 
Paul, I,m coming to Mass. this week on business, I'll come by and kick you - just kidding, I have heard both the BAT and CJ mentioned above and they are both excellent. I really like the CJ sound, it's pretty consistent throughout the line. The BAT was however unbelievable. It is now on my short list with the CJ17 and I also want to check out the Hovland. Thanks for the tip.
kenl OP
131 posts
 
Paul,

Thanks for your input. The guy I bought the SACD player from is a big BAT fan. In fact he sold the 777ES to pick up a BAT CDP. I'm going to contact him for his opinion.

I think the VK50SE might be a little outside of my price range though. I was planning on picking up the Levinson at dealer's cost through a friend. How does the VK30SE compare to the VK50SE?

The price difference may make it possible. What would these units go for on the used market? What would you consider to be a fair price?

Thanks,

Ken
beemer
444 posts
 
Here's a url for used VK50SE right here, at $4700.
$4500 would be better, but $4700 is in the ballpark.
Here's the url:

http://gonmain.iserver.net/cgi-bin/cl.pl?preatube&992788475

Paul's 11th commandment of high-end audio: BUY USED!

Paul
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