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Battle of affordable pre-amps: Rotel vs Parasound

Which would sound better, Rotel RC 1550 or Parasound P3? System is 2-channel, pair of Quad 22L2s powered by a 200wpc Rotel RB-1080. Room is small, 12x10x8, and acoustical foam will be applied to front and back walls. Floor is carpeted. I mostly listen to CDs, although I do keep up a lossless music library for my iPod. We can talk DACs later! Musical preference ranges from Frank Sinatra to Beethoven to electronica/IDM, Pearl Jam, Pink Floyd, and Bowie. I don't have a decent CD player yet, but you can assume Rotel RCC-1055 or Music Hall 25.2 or Cambridge Audio 550. Your thoughts are appreciated, thanks.
realremo
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Parasound, John Curl, and they look cooler.
timlub
2,039 posts
 
I'd rather listen to the Parasound...More accurate.
pdspecl
254 posts
 
Not sure what dollar range you qualify as affordable. I have the same 22L2 speakers. Using a VTL 2.5 tube preamp acquired locally w/o shipping for $775. Very happy with it for money spent. For my secondary system I acquired a Antique Sound Lab Line 1 DT tube preamp for just $150 here on Agon. Suprisingly well made. What a sleeper, sounds darn nice for what paid.
If you really want to go budget try B&K older 2 channel preamps. Pro 10, Pro 5.... CS-117. My friend has a B&K CS-117 pre, ST-2220 amp running MMG Maggies. One of the best sounding systems I have heard for a total cost of about $1,200.
Good luck
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