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Buying new pre-amp

I'm currently still using my 37 year old Crown IC-150. I was wondering if I will hear any tonal quality improvements if I moved up to a modern pre-amp such as an Emotiva RSP-2. This is the unit I have my eyes on. I know S/N ratios will probably be much better, but will it sound any better through say the CD input which is basically a straight through connection anyway. I know my Music Hall mmf 7 should sound better through the phono input. I'm just figuring, my IC-150 although in mint condition, is all factory old. Any idea's would be helpful. I do have a well trained ear.
tony3d
karmakarma
22 posts
 
Hi Tony, Can't speak to the specifics of either piece, but the age of your Crown probably means there has been a gradual decline in performance as caps and other components degrade. Hey, we all get old! I have not heard the Emotiva but would encourage you to trust your ears more than specs.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
Crown has always been more of a professional product. A 37 year old audiophile piece such as AR or Marantz will kill it. You really need to borrow a pre from someone or a local shop and see for yourself.

You do know that in the last 37 years, they have invented remote controls too...
elwood
42 posts
 
Years ago I moved up from an IC-150 to an AR SP-4, another solid state unit. There was very noticeable improvement. Now have a First Sound Presence Deluxe and will never go back. Have fun in your quest for your favorite, but do not hesitate. It is easy to improve on the Crown.
shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,467 posts
 
I know S/N ratios will probably be much better, but will it sound any better through say the CD input which is basically a straight through connection anyway.

Op amps have improved a lot since the 70's. The power supply caps will probably be dried out and need replacing too. Chances are that you will get a significant performance improvement with a modern equivalent SS preamp - what power amp and speakers are you using - is it a Crown 300?
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Try, try before you buy. Find a dealer that has a business model that lets you try, try. That is the only way to tell what difference thee is.
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