2. amps-preamps
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Preamp suggestions

Hello,

I am looking for preamp suggestions for my current system. I like good resolution and definition along with some punch and well defined bass. I have little experience with what’s out there as for these characteristics. Mainly been looking in the $800 - $1500 range, new or used.

Amp – Halo A-21
Speakers – B&W 683
CD Player – Cambridge 740

Preamps tried:
Halo P-3 – felt this was way too laid back for what I like. There were some really nice aspects, but overall just not enough punch or resolution.

Rotel RC 1070 – This one just doesn’t cut it on any level for me – not saying it might not work well in some systems, but for mine it’s very disappointing.

Carver CT24 – no joke, this has great resolution in the high end. Even a couple of friends agreed that it is very pleasing. Issues are the mids are a little muddy and over driven and it can seem harsh at times and it’s really old, but it was what made me realize some of the potential of the Halo and B&W 683s and to start looking for a decent preamp to begin with. I just want to reach the full potential of what I currently have – i.e. the Carver is actually “fun” listening – with the P-3 and RC 1070 I missed that.

Preamps I have been considering from reviews and reputation – Cambridge 840E, Arcam FMJ C31 or C30, PS Audio GCP 200 and I’ve seen several used from Krell, Classe and Bryston within my budget. Problem is, without hearing them in my system, it’s another shot in the dark, having little experience with different brands and their specific characteristics. I would also like to stay with solid state at this time.

Any helpful suggestions would be appreciated. I know this isn’t a “high-end” system, but it can certainly be more enjoyable than it is currently and I can’t just keep buying preamps hoping that I hit the right combo for what I like – nice clean sound, good resolution - something that makes listening fun…

~L
lenndion
tsciame
88 posts
 
If you are only using the CD player as your source you may want to consider a passive preamp. They can be had for a fraction of your budget and are easily resold.
alexs's avatar
alexs
46 posts
 
You might consider an Audible Illusions Modulus 3A. Ususally can be had for $1000 or so. I know about the reputation for eating tubes but in my experience it's not happened. Great preamp but not the most ergonomic since no remote and two volume controls.
12volt's avatar
12volt
27 posts
 
Audition an Audio Research LS-17. Although these are rare, used you may find one if you can extend your budget just a little. It is a different world and provides a great glimpse into the stratesphere costs of their Reference Series. If you are looking for a preamp that embodies its own sound look elsewhwere. I have owned many of the ones in previous notes here and this is a real keeper. Talk about dead silent background and dynamics that are very special. All it has is input selector, volume and mute but in reality that's all that is needed. No bells or whhistles on this model. It does have a remote and balanced outputs that IMO are both requirements. Good Luck in your search.
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