Adcom GFA 5500 v B&K ST 1400 II v Rotel 990
I have to agree. Looking at the preamp is a much better idea. I also agree that a passive like the GFP-750 is an excellent low cost solution. If you can't get a really good active line stage, I say don't get one at all. The only thing I would add is that you would probably get better results using 2 sets of speaker cables that are exactly the same. I've done quite a bit of experimenting and was never able to get a pair of Vandersteen's to sound right with anything other that 2 runs of the same cable. Even if you drop down to a less expensive cable, it should still sound better. |
Not sure how the adcom compares to the amps you mentioned, never owned them. I did compare my gfa-5500 to parasound hca-1500 and I prefer the parasound amps. Much much better low end, tighter, more precise, deeper etc. The top end was also nicely improved...... Speakers I run are the old infinity kappa 8.1's |
One reason I am not sure about this is the 5500 does not sound like your typical Adcom. it is MOSFET On the other side of the coin the B&K is a 1400 series II . Does that mean it still sounds like a 140?? As for preamps the 750 is out of my range and now you have to add a phono section or headphone amp ( I think) I have a 565 and would really like remote. Is going to a 710 or a 715 going back wards? |
Going to a GFP-715 is a lateral move. Here is a user review that compares 565 to 715... http://www.audioreview.com/cat/amplification/preamplifiers/adcom/gfp-715/prd_324244_1591crx.aspx You haven't said what your budget is and what you are looking to gain with an upgrade. |
