Suggestions for my system: Preamp?


Especially for a recent college graduate, I am lucky to have such a nice stereo. It includes:

Magnepan 1.6QRs
NHT 12" powered subwoofer with an external crossover
Arcam CD-72T
Bryston 4B

Currently, my father's old Yamaha prologic (bah!) receiver is serving as my preamp. Also, I have AudioQuest cable, some decent interconnects (50 to 100 bucks a pop, not toooo expensive but not toooo cheap), and a Monster HTS1000 power conditioner.

I've been told that I really need a replacement for the Yamaha preamp. However, the entire aforementioned system was purchased for only 2 thousand dollars. Because I really don't have much cash, I've had to find excellent bargains and values.

So if you could kindly drop some suggestions for preamps that cost less than 750 used, I would appreciate it! My two criteria are: 1) It must be of sonic equivalence to my other components and 2) Must be able to send my towers AND my subwoofer a signal without using a Y splitter (i.e. the preamplifier must have more than 1 set of outputs). I really don't know where to begin looking, so thank you for your help!
128x128baltman

Showing 2 responses by 9rw

The Classe CP-35 is vastly superior to the Adcom. It's got a lot better bass and just more life (better dynamics) than the Adcom. Oh, and don't listen to what people tell you about tube preamps sounding slow. They've obviously never heard a good one. Anyway, you'll be happy -- at least for a while -- with a CP-35.
Baltman: None may be available today, but these things change daily. Be patient. Besides, I know of a used Classe black faceplate CP-35 and I believe the asking price is $499. You can e-mail me for particulars. Oh, and I stand to gain nothing if you buy it. -- Ron