2. amps-preamps
  3. 1222454543

Need rec on $500 preamp

I am looking for a decent preamp around $500 (could be new or used). I might be willing to go closer to $1000 if the performance is really noticable. I am running a Technics 1210 5MG with fluid damper, and a Shure V15 III cart (stock wiring). For digital I am running a Sony 9100 ES (will probably add a Benchmark DAC soon). I don't have a tuner but would like to leave room in the preamp for one later. My amp is a Mcintosh MC 250 and Klipsch Heresey II's for speakers.

Right now I am using an old Carver C-1 for a preamp. It is ok but I am having to clean the pots/contacts out pretty often and now one of the aux inputs has an intermittant channel. Rather than get it fixed I am just looking to upgrade. I am leaning towards the new NAD 162(?) but I thought I would get some opinions here. I don't do much if any processing to the sound so I would like it to be as seamless as possible. Maybe bass and treble controls, but not much more. Thanks in advance for any recommendations.
jlc76
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,341 posts
 
Also forget the tuner and go with a Roku Soundbridge or a Squeezebox for internet radio (sound quality approaches CD and smashes FM) and then you might add a music server later as well.
tigerwoodkhorns
130 posts
 
Check out a Musical Fidelity A3 or A3.2. If you need a DAC, the Musical Fidelity A3.24 is a great unit (I use one with my server - has a Benchmark before the 3.24).

This is all in your price range.
jlc76 OP
37 posts
 
I can't completely ditch the tuner unless I can find my three fav local stations through that Squeezebox thing. I have been toying around with converting all my CDs to some type of lossless format (don't know which yet) so having the USB might be desirable. Especially considering that I have the PC in my audio room the wife won't let me have an audio only room :-(

I have looked at the preamp but I wish it had more analog inputs. I need one for SACD (so it doesn't get converted to PCM), one for my TT, and one for a Tuner (although I may get one of those Sangean HD Radio tuners which can carry the signal over optic/coax...I wonder if it will do the same for my analog only stations...)

Thanks for the recs., keep 'em coming I will start doing my research.
darkmoebius
900 posts
 
Rogue Audio Magnum 66 w/ Phono

Quad QC-24 (review)

Eastern Electric Minimax (review 1, 2)

Tube Audio Design TAD-150 (review)

Conrad Johnson PV5 with Phono
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
The NAD looks like a good option unless you need an esoteric brand. I would imagine they sell fairly well but they rarely turn up on the used market. That says something to me.
I've owned a few NAD pieces with good results.
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