2. amps-preamps
  3. 1295015199

Pre-amp opinions: SAE vs. Hafler

I've recently decided to upgrade to separates from my nad 7240pe receiver. For sources i'm using a denon changer and pioneer ct-f500 tape deck. I plan on upgrading the cd source eventually and picking up a tuner and tt (probably an AR xa or xb) once the funds are available. For a power amp i debated between a hafler dh-200 and sae 2200. Ended up with the sae which i should be picking up next week in good condition. My question now is about a pre-amp. I'm looking at a hafler dh-110 or sae mark ixb. Any opinions? i'm very new to audiogon and the high fidelity quest, which can be hard on a student's budget. However i'm looking for good clarity and accurate bass from my polk rt-5 speakers. Any info is appreciated. Thanks
ces04848
ces04848 OP
6 posts
 
I'll pass that along, i think he has a pair of mission speakers, same vintage as the carver pieces. Ever owned any macintosh? Also what what's your primary source? I want to get a tt eventually but for now i'm content with digital.
heyraz
177 posts
 
Primary source is turntable, at least that's where I get the most enjoyment from. I have a pretty decent Cd player (Adcom GCD-750) but it can't hold a candle to my turntable. I get a kick out of vinyl, especially when I find a used album for $1.99. Can't beat that feeling.
krelladdict
12 posts
 
Hey ces04848, if you can trrryyy to be patient I would hold out even longer and try to afford Aragon amp & pre. Not that the Acurus isn't good, just the Aragon is a cut above and built extremely well. A friend had a Hafler DH500 that although powerful was overly bright,lacked bottom end & uninvolving. Another friend had SAE and that was unbelievably Blah & and also uninvolving musically. The SAE friend moved on to Aragon 4004 amp & 24Ksp pre(has a phono stage)and couldn't believe what he had been missing. The Aragons seem to integrate fairly well with most speakers & equiptment. Hell even though I have Krells, I still have (2) 4004MKII's(they're like children!). Keep in mind as you venture up the $$$audio chain, deficiencies will be revealed with cables,sources,speakers etc!! Good luck & keep us posted. Dave.
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