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Preamp Noob has a question

I have always used integrated amps in my system. Lately I've been pondering whether or not to upgrade my Yamaha AX596 to a Yamaha A-S2000 (since these are discontinued, there aren't many left). Then I started wondering if buying a used preamp and coupling it with the power amp section of my AX596 might be a better option for less money. I read some reviews on the Musical Fidelity A3cr, but apparently that preamp dates back to 2001-2002. Can you guys make some suggestions for newer, quality preamps that might be available for less than $1000? Thank you.
danoroo

Showing 4 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
Gotta know what speakers you are running and what kind of sound improvement you are looking for?
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
"I'm looking for that ever elusive extra transparency and detail. Can I get it with a preamp? "

No doubt pre-amp can be a factor for this. You'd have to give something a try, but I suspect for under $1000 you can make a difference, with a SS or even tube preamp.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
I'd do the pre-amp upgrade and see what that does. That also sets you up down the road for using a dedicated amp rather than integrated amp section, which might also have something to offer. Decent integrateds with pre-amp out and amp in connections make fantastic spares to keep around in case needed.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,830 posts
 
Ss i like bel canto or Classe. NAD is another I can live with.

Tube, I am sold on Audio Research.
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