2. amps-preamps
  3. 1352123129

Upgrade Amp or Preamp 1st? Conrad Johnson?

Hello,

I am looking to upgrade the 2 channel performance of my system within a home theater 5.1 set up.

Currently have Sonus Faber Cremona M's, Oppo 95, Emotive XPA 5 amp and Emotiva UMC 1 for a pre pro.

I will be replacing both the amp and pre. The question is which to do first. Which will give me the bigger performance upgrade? It has been recommended to me to get a dedicated preamp and not a prepro for better 2 channel performance.

I have been researching Conrad Johnson Tube preamps used for $2000 -$2500. It is hard to actually demo them and I have been going on reviews that I have read.

Any suggstions would be appreciated.

Thank You
pkelly1504
jallen
502 posts
 
Upgrade the amp to Bryston 4 or 14BSST and use a Marantz processor with Cardas cables for some warmth. Good for 2ch and multi ch. The Marantz are very underrated and musically quite good. They are just a bit upfront but the Cardas cables help this. I use the Golden Ref and AQ Sky. Both superb. Jallen
schubert
7,386 posts
 
To me its about like asking if you should change your left tire before the right tire.
pkelly1504 OP
62 posts
 
Thank You for the responses.

I know I need to upgrade both the amp and the preamp however due to finances I have to do it in steps.

I do want to buy quality gear to match the cremona's.
More to discover