2. amps-preamps
  3. 1253561422

Preamp upgrade for NAD 320BEE

My current system includes an Arcam CD73, a pair of Wharfedale Pacific Evo 8 bookshelf speakers and a NAD 320BEE integrated amp. As of yesterday I was using an Exposure Super XV integrated amp, but I constantly get a ground loop buzz sound with it, and despite all my efforts it will not go away.

So I'm back to the NAD 320BEE. Coming from the Exposure, its sound is warmer, which I like, but sounds slightly muddy and lacks the soundstage that the Exposure had. I use jumper cables currently to connect the preamp to the amp of the NAD320BEE unit. I think this means I can use a separate preamp.

Any thoughts/recommendations on a good budget preamp that might add some soundstage and clarity back to my music. FYI, I listen exclusively to classic jazz.

Thanks,
David
dmloring
tbromgard
814 posts
 
Hi-Since your NAD does not have phono, I assume you dont need it. You dont mention a budget, but I will assume $500. For that, I would look to used gear. I really like McCormack products. The Micro Line Drive pre amp or the TLC pre amp are both excellent, and Steve McCormack is still around to service stuff or answer questions. Other options might be to get a used tube pre amp-conrad johnson, van alstine, audible illusions, but they might be out of your price range or perhaps an older PAS 3 (but it will probably sound a bit warm). Good luck.
robertbrown
151 posts
 
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?vdone&1158801433
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,443 posts
 
David,
You are EXACTLY in the same boat that I was on some months ago. And all I can suggest you is to get a Promitheus TVC. I am sure your NAD will sound much more better than the Exposure you are using. I am using a Reference C-Core version with my NAD C352 (http://www.promitheusaudio.com/frontpage.html). You might get a used Promitheus on Audiogon for much less. Your NAD has great input sensitivity 630mV, which will work superbly with the Promitheus TVC.

What is the rest of your system?
dmloring OP
34 posts
 
Milpai,

Thanks for the recommendation. I'll look into that. Rest of my system:

CD player: Arcam CD73
Speakers: Wharfedale Pacific Evo 8
Cables: audioart (both speaker and interconnects)
PS Audio power conditioner.
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