2. amps-preamps
  3. 1301856006

Fairly cheap SS preamp with a good phono preamp?

Does it make sense to run a good phono pre- into a fairly cheap solid state linestage? For instance, the Cary CPA-1 pre that's for sale in the Classifieds for $649, with an outboard, upgraded Basis phono stage (which I have)?

I'm running the Basis through a BAT VK3ix preamp, but could I sell off the BAT and switch to the Cary without degrading the sound too much? I really like the sound of the Basis through the BAT, but I wouldn't mind a more analytical sound and a little less warmth, which is why I'm thinking about SS options. The rest of my system is a Bryston 4BST amp, Hyperion HP-938 speakers, and a Rega P5 TT. I listen to vinyl almost exclusively but also use a N. Tjoeb CD player and a Wadia DAC/i-pod doc at times. Thanks!
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klein_rogge OP
13 posts
 
Thanks, Transnova. The one here on the 'gon sold, but I found another one - new - for $700 that I'm seriously considering.
klein_rogge's avatar
klein_rogge OP
13 posts
 
Thanks Schipo and Jedinite. It's true; I've never heard any Adcom gear. I jumped right from 40-year-old McIntosh gear to Rowland, Plinius, Bryston, Pass Labs, etc. The 565 might fit the bill.

I actually own a USP-1 right now as a back-up pre- for any time I've sold my gear without replacing it yet or have gear in the shop. I like the USP-1, and I think the phono stage is remarkable for the price. The last time I had it in my system I A/B-ed it against a Plinius M16P and the Plinius phono beat it out but only by a little. I thought the USP-1 sounded a little bright and forward compared to the Plinius, which sounded more liquid and slightly more laid back to me. But at 10x the price.

Maybe it's unrealistic of me to think that I can best the USP-1 for a little more money.
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