2. amps-preamps
  3. 1131220608

Which preamp........for sonic bliss????

I am presently redesigning a new system (as I plan to move into my new home I have decided to have fun with a new two channel system)

A little background.....my previous system was a great tube set-up (or great for me....maybe modest by others standards). Anyway it was Dunlavy SC-IIA Signatures (the 6' towers) with Cary CAD-50 MK II monoblocks, a Thor TA-1000 Mk II preamp and a host of other components (all of which will stay.....I'm just reworking speakers, preamp and amp).

Here'e the current system thus far.....Avalon Radian HC speakers and Krell FBP 200M monoblocks. I'm looking for a terrific preamp to drive everything. A few audiophile friends suggested I go with a solid state preamp to drive the Krells and Avalons appropriately.

Here's a couple of the contenders:
* Edge Signature 1
* Levinson 380
* Sim P-5
* Pass X-1

Would like to stay under $2,600 used ....by am open on price.

Has anyone heard the Edge (or comments on the other 'contenders')?

All other comments, thoughts and suggestions are welcome!

Many thanks,
Dave
naperaudio
mrcyn
26 posts
 
Hello Dave!!! All the pre amps listed are no doubt quite good.You should also consider the Jeff Rowland Synergy 2i.I used this pre amp with a FPB 200c and was very satisfied with the sonics.Should work great with the Avalons.By the way, my Avatars are GREAT!!! Good luck....
naperaudio OP
24 posts
 
You guys are the BEST!!!!

I was away from e-mail for a few days and it was terrific to get all your feedback!

'9rw'....thanks for the 'head to head' on the 38 vs the Pass. I had heard the 38 was a little dry, but hearing it from someone who has heard both was just what I needed!

'Bgrazman', 'Loudandclear' and 'Fazoid' ....many thanks for your additions! I have read great things on the Suprateks, am unfamiliar with Bent Audio and was unaware that Superphon was making new products again. I guess the old adage is true......the more you think you know, the less you really know. I look forward to checking these out.

Ken (Kehut) and Bob (ZKidd)....how can I not check out the Modwright?!?!?! Ken....your comments on other components has been 'right on the mark' (and you're a great guy to boot). Bob....you should be a reviewer! I think I just got more out of your post than the last 10 reviews from Stereophile/Absolute Sound (they send so many mixed messages, you don't know whether they're reccomending them or not!)

Mike (mrcyn) ....glad to hear the Avalons are still making great music for you! As you can see, I couldn't leave them for long (just toooooooo good a deal on the Radians for me to pass up!). You also read my mind, as I was thinking about the Rowland Synergy IIi (and it's the most striking looking preamp of the bunch!)

Once again, this was my first forum post and I continue to be lucky to appreciate all the feedback from friends and members.
9rw's avatar
9rw
318 posts
 
Dave,

You're welcome. I neglected to mention that while the Levinson 380 left a lot to be desired, the 380S is a whole different animal. But it was also a lot more expensive. In any case, there are lots of good choices. The Audio Research LS25MKII is another one worth auditioning. Enjoy.
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