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Parasound JC2 or Mark Levinson No 26s ?

Folks,

I will be very fortunate if someone has compared both these preamps side by side. But any information would be helpful at this stage. 
I haven’t heard either of these preamps, nor can I get an audition. I need an honest preamp which doesn’t alter the spectral balance or sounds dryish in the pretext of neutrality. Both the Parasound JC2 and Levinson 26s are reputed for being honest to the source. I can get both for roughly the same price. JC2 new and 26s used. It will drive my tube amps which powers my Tannoy Turnberry SE speakers. Source is all analog. 

Sonically, which one would you suggest to go with? 

pani
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,258 posts
 

I can’t comment on the sonic performance of either preamp, I think that’s a matter of personal preference and system synergy. 

But in my opinion the JC2 is not in the same league as the 26s in terms of build and component quality.

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,979 posts
 

There is a reason the used 26s is the same price as a new JC2. Also, the 26s has already depreciated the JC2 will drop by 40% the day you take it home on the used market. Now granted I’ve not heard either, so in the end that’s your deciding factor. listening. But for my money i'd buy the Levinson and sell it at minimum loss if i didnt like it. 

pani OP
1,238 posts
 

I totally understand the resell aspect. My dilemma is brand new JC2 vs a 30 years old Levinson. Levinson is definitely a bigger and better brand. Just that reviews have very similar comments about both of them. If they sound at the same level of resolution and dynamics, i may consider a brand new JC2

pani OP
1,238 posts
 

Another thing, if JC2 is at the same level, i need not hurry and pull the trigger on the 26s. I will buy a JC2 brand new when i am ready 

vinylvision1's avatar
vinylvision1
31 posts
 

Could you tell me where the ML 26s is for sale please sir?  I'm in desperate need.

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