2. amps-preamps
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BAT VK-51 SE or McIntosh C200?

I am in the process of upgrading my system, one piece at a time, and am starting with the preamp. I think I've narrowed it down to these two preamps. Anyone have any advice? I listened to both the BAT 31SE and the Mac C2200 in my system, and preferred the MAC for its better high-level extension. I am currently using a Bryston 4B ST amp driving Dynaudio Confidence 5's. Thanks all!
sotaphile
audiooracle
387 posts
 

I would urge you to consider the Cary Slp 05. It replaced my VTL 7.5 and it sounds incredible, one of the best and most magical preamplfiers I have ever heard. It has only a basic remote.
sotaphile OP
22 posts
 
I would urge you to consider the Cary Slp 05. It replaced my VTL 7.5 and it sounds incredible, one of the best and most magical preamplfiers I have ever heard.
Audiooracle: I did have a chance to audition the Cary Slp 05 in comparison to ARC LS26. The amp was a Pass Labs and the speakers were Vandersteen Quattros. To me, the pre sounded too forceful in the upper midrange such that vocals sounded almost overmodulated. Any comments?
audiooracle
387 posts
 
The preamp is anything but forceful, however as with anything in this industry, setup is everything! I use mine with an Acoustic Zen Krakatoa and it makes a huge difference with this preamplifier.

Where did you hear the preamp and under what conditions?
sotaphile OP
22 posts
 
I heard it in a store, hooked up to Vandersteen Quattros and a Pass Labs power amp. I don't know what the cables were. However, I just plunked down the $$$ for the Cary SLP 05 based on everything I heard about it and the new review in Stereophile. I hope it's as amazing in my system as everyone has been saying.
jafox
1,472 posts
 
Sotaphile: Even after your own observations with the Cary indicated that something did not sound "right" for you, you still went ahead and bought the unit because of everything you heard about it and a silly magazine review? Did you at least take it home and try it out in your system for a few days?
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