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Cary CAD 120s MkII vs. Music Reference RM200 MkII

Has anyone had a chance to compare the Cary CAD 120 MkII and the Music Reference RM200 MkII?

I have a pair of Joseph Pulsars that Stereophile reviewed with the RM200 but am torm between which of the 2 amps would be best for me. I am wondering how much the 2 amps will differ in sound.

I like the ultralinear/triode option on the Cary, which the Music Ref. doesn't have.

Thanks.
ksl822
polk432
1,142 posts
 
It depends on the gain in the preamp. I'm getting a Cary CAD 120s back tomorrow and since I have the Cary SLP 98P preamp that has a high gain in it I was advised to get Cardas Caps and new hexfreds in order to achieve better sound rather than upgrading to the MK II. What pre are you using? In Triode if the meters aren't moving, the amp plays in class A which is pretty loud in a 14x15 room. Best of luck.
ksl822 OP
32 posts
 
I ordered the SLP 98 with all the upgrades with the MkII with the hexfreds and Jensen caps upgrades. I also have the McIntosh C48 preamp modified by the Upgrade Company to switch off.

My room is only 10x10 with one side open to a stairwell, so I have to play with the balance to achieve proper listening conditions.
polk432
1,142 posts
 
It should work well since you have independant balance controls on the 98.
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