Budget pre-amp for computer/office system


(somehow, when I first posted this, the title became "High End Multichannel Preamp?" but not sure how. Re-submitting here with an accurate title. Thanks.)

Currently assembling left over components into a sytem for my office. Will be using the computer as the source/CD player. The coumpter motherboard has high quality SPDIF output. I going to run that into a Camelot Technologies Arthur DAC (latest version with the Swiss 24bit/192K upsampling chip). I've got an old Musical Concepts modified Adcom 555 power amp, and another 3/4 channel Adcom multichannel amp (GFA-2535, I think) laying in the basement. I have a Sunfire Jr. powered sub crossed over to a pair of Mirage OmniStats (will hang on the wall, off the desk) Unfortunately, no preamp. What used pre-amps, available under $400, would people recommend for such a system? Remote control is not necessary, nor are multiple inputs and capabilities. Possible choices (but not exclusive) include:
Forte Model 2
Audiolab 8000Q
Audible Illusion
Old Conrad Johnson, Counterpoint stuff
Audio Alchemy preamp with the separate PS3 power supply
(don't suggest the Adcom GFP 565, I had one and wasnot pleased)
others?

or should I look at passive units (is it feasilbe with this set-up -- 2V output on the Arthur, 89db sensitivity on the Omnistat speakers, 27-29 db gain and 22 kOhms input impedance on the Adcom amps, and room is small at 16ft x 9ft), possibilities include:
the "Ultimate Attenuators" from EVS
Luminuos Audio's AXIOM
Creek (#10 or 12)
Channel Islands
Goldpoint

Thanks for the input
lotusm50

Showing 1 response by meech33

WWW.Space-Tech-Lab.com

$349,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Tubed Pre-amp that will definately smooth out that Adcom Harshness. Also really good imaging for the price. They have a pretty wide selection also.