2. amps-preamps
  3. 1245115547

system synergy

So, the basic question is: how important is synergy between amps and preamps? In particular, how much benefit can be expected from mating amps with preamps that are in the same series? One would think that a good signal from a preamp is a good signal from a preamp, but I imagine impedance and maybe bandwidth matching might be very important. I'm not gear-head enough to say.

There is likely no general answer to this, but I do have a specific case in mind.

I have an Accuphase P-300 and an CJ Motif CR8 Pre (solid state). Both of course excellent vintage (and vintage-ish) units. But the Accuphase was designed with the C-200 preamp in mind, as it were, and the CJ Motif with the CJ Motif power amps in mind.

So, what would I likely find if I switched the Motif for a (sound) C-200 (features aside)? And likewise, what woud I find if I switched the P-300 out for a Motif Power amp (assuming proper matching with loudspeakers)?

Any experienced answers, or even educated speculations appreciated.

Thanks.

rnm4

Showing 3 responses by rnm4

rnm4 OP
308 posts
 
Ngjockey:

You say: "I think you have the better combination already but vintage means many things."

Might you elaborate on either or both parts of that?

And Tholt:

The rated output impedance of the CR8 is "less than 200 ohms"; the rated input impedance of the P-300 is "100 k ohms, for rated output, at the maximum level control". I assume this meets the "at least 10 times" rule? I only ask because sometimes measures, and uses of "k" for a thousand (as in the case of calories) are not uniform.
rnm4 OP
308 posts
 
Thanks, Tholt.

Mechans: that's a pretty incoherent ranting ramble you just went on. But one thing. Why on Earth would you think my P-300 Motif CR* combo slow? Especially without knowing what the speakers are (Thiel CS2 2). Doesn't sound slow to me, and I used to run Naim gear, for years, so I know the contrast class to "slow"!
rnm4 OP
308 posts
 
Mechans,

Gee I'm sorry for your trouble. It must be a terrible burden you are under. I had no idea. I'm sorry if my glib and terse reply offended. I wish you all good days.

I'm still not clear, though. Exactly which combination of preamp/amp do you suppose would be slow sounding? This last post makes it seems like you mean the all CJ combo, but I'm not sure.
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