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Classe' Preamp comparisons

Anyone ever had the opportunity to compare some of Classe's preamplifiers? Specifically a CP-35 to say, a model Five? Or how about either of those to a CP-50? I'm not sure of the Classe' history, but I do know that I like their sound. Just wondering which units really give the best sonic bang for the buck. I currently run a CA-100 amp into Maggies 1.6's and it seems to be a good match. I have a CP-35, but sometimes think there's something lacking....
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elevick
2,636 posts
 
The AI is awesome sounding. I hate dual volume controls...
Time to start tube rolling, you will really notice it when you put NOS mullards or telefunkens in there.
ish_mail
27 posts
 
I've read that the factory option phono stage in the CP-50/60 is highly regarded, but compared to what? The phono option seems to add $400-$500 to the cost of these units used (about the same as new!) and they move quickly. So if I went w/o the phono option, how much would I have to spend (used) on an external phono stage to match the quality of the Classe option? Any recommendations?

I've been running a CP-35/CA 200 combination into Thiel 2.2s for about 10 years. I always intended to upgrade the CP-35 (clearly the weak link when I bought the system), but never got around to it until now.

Thanks.
gbart
290 posts
 
I had a $900 Monolithic Sound phono setup (pre and upgrade power supply) for a while. The CP-50 with phono was significantly better.
ish_mail
27 posts
 
Thanks, Gbart. Sounds like the acclaim is well earned.
xtian_lugz
19 posts
 
I just bought a classe model twenty. I like the sound, but the thing is I cant find any info about this preamp anywhere.. Similar looking of the model 30 but w/o phono stage..
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