CP-700 Classe Pre-Amp

I would recommend a BAT VK 31 or the 31SE/51SE. I like the flexibility of rolling the tubes in the 31. I think the BAT would be a good match with your monoblocks. If buying new, the 31SE/51SE are closing out and the pricing is favorable and you would get the 5 year warranty. Used prices are getting better as well. Let us know what you finally decide.

I used to own this great pre. By far, it has the slickest user interface and best build quality of any component I have ever owned. The extra user features are also quite good. I still miss these aspects of the CP-700. As for the sound, I would characterize it as pure Classe...smooth and easy, with not a hint of glare or etchiness on the top and a very nice controlled bottom end. This is not the fastest, most dynamic pre out there but it is an outstandingly neutral unit. What speakers and amps do you plan on using?

My system consists of: Verity's "Fidelio" speakers, Audio Research "CD-3" CD player, Classe "CAM-200" mono amps and Classe "CDP-47.5" pre-amp.
I weas also looking at a used Audio Research "Reference MKII" pre.
Sally

Sally, I used to own a Audio Research Ref 3 preamp as well and preferred the Classe. Keep in mind that most Audio Research preamps have a high-ish output impedance so you may want to make sure your amps input impedance is a good match.