Dodd preamp vs. McCormack RLD-1 preamp

The Amperexes are locked in my mail room so no go this weekend. But, I'm getting the sense that the Dodd is on the warm side of neutral, which suprises me a bit as some comments regarding the Isabella speaks to an even smoother, sweeter presentation; for me, that might be too much of a good thing as the Dodd seems just about right to me used with the Music Reference RM9 (might be a different story with other amps) and I noticed the same sonic signature the Dodd is used with the Atma-sphere M60s (which are more neutral and transparent in a very natural way when used with the MP-3). Of course, some people think the Atma-sphere stuff is lean, I think it is very accurate and real sounding.

In this case the Dodd might be the "better choice".

Then-
There is no better or worst, just what works best in particular system and depending on individual taste & preferences.

Very true. And interesting how much audio reviewing focuses on an individual piece of equipment with little focus on system context and combinations. For example if I were reviewing the Atma-sphere M60s with a Dodd versus the Atma pre, I would ascribe very different attributes to the M60s. Makes the good, better, best questions regarding equipment obviously difficult to answer. But in my system with the Music Reference amps, the Dodd sounded better to me facing a fairly strong lineup of preamps - it is no doubt a very good preamp worth auditioning, no matter what you are willing to pay for a preamp. Will it be your cup of tea? No substitute for listening.

Yes. Reviewer's commends or even our own impressions should be used as the basic guidelines. That's the way I see it.
And even if such a think as neutral, colorless component existed it doesn't guaranty the ultimate in performance.
There is always the weak link and compromises must be made.

But in my system with the Music Reference amps, the Dodd sounded better to me facing a fairly strong lineup of preamps - it is no doubt a very good preamp worth auditioning, no matter what you are willing to pay for a preamp. Will it be your cup of tea? No substitute for listening.

I absolutely agree with your statement and reference to your own judgment as the final and only step to be 100% sure.

As to Dodd and its competition. I agree and will also add that it is more flexible then others in regards to tailoring the sound to your taste. A simple tube rolling is not only fun but useful tool in fine tuning the sound to your ear and your system. That is the beauty of tubes and simple but still innovative design of Dodd that makes it special.

Those that are sceptical about its value, quality, overall performance, lock of dealers, direct sells and unfortunate inability of auditioning it at home with 30 days money back guaranty (like other do).... hold on to your wallets and buy whatever it is that makes you smile.
But believe me, you can do a lot worst and spend a lot more.

Mariusz

Looks like he selling direct now, and lowered the price to $2,600. I'm not sure what the "returns" experience is for those providing 30-day trials (Placette, Red Wine,etc.) But it seems that dealer sales as a model is at the very least being challenged for 2-channel audio; I've got to believe most are surviving on HT and installations. It seems to me that if your going to sell direct, you can cover "returns" after 30-days as a cost of doing business (should there be damage etc.) with no middle man to take a piece of the pie.