2. amps-preamps
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Best Pre-amp under 2k-USED

I'm having a hard time deciding on a pre-amp. Being fairly new to this hobby, I'm not even sure if I want to go SS or tubes. I have been seriously considering: Krell KRC-3, Conrad Johnson PFR, Levinson 38, Adcom GFP-750, Classe 47.5 and 50 on the SS side and BAT VK-30, Rouge Audio 99 and Melos MA-333r on the tube side. Also included in my list are various models from Audio Research and Pass Labs. I definately want a full function remote and would like to have the flexability of HT pass through. I'd like to get a unit that is considered a "high-end" product which will also match well with a Citation 7.1 amp and an Arcam FMJ CD-23 cdp. Speakers will be my next purchase (right now I'm switching between an old pair of ADS L-710's and a pair of Wharfedale towers.
say811

Showing 1 response by drubin

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drubin
3,265 posts
 
I had an Adcom 750 for a couple of years and thought it was great. That is, until I heard the Placette.

Tubes may beat the living crap out of anything solid state, but you have to like the sound of tubes. The Adcom in passive mode does very, very little to the signal, which strikes me as exactly what it should be doing. On the other hand, maybe you like a pre-amp that makes the system sound more "musical." I have a First Sound and I understand the appeal. So, Say881, you should try to listen to a few examples from both camps.
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