ML390S directly into JC-1's

Hey all,

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with directly connecting the ML390S to JC-1's. I have read some reviews indicating that the ML390S functions best this way, but my own personal experience listening to other systems seems to indicate that a preamp is key to retaining musicality. My loudspeakers are Talon Raven C's. At the moment I cannot listen to ANY music, because my "system" is just an ARC CD2, JC-1's and the Raven C's.

So two options I have are as follows (perhaps there are more):

1) Keep my ARC CD2, find a $2000 balanced tube pre-amp and be done with it.
2) Sell the ARC CD2, get the ML390S (I can potentially get a GREAT deal on one) plug directly into the JC-1. Perhaps save up and demo some pre-amps later next year.

Is the ML390S that much better than a CD2? Any comments would be appreciated!

Cheers,

Peter