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CD player Vs Pre-amp

Does anybody knows a good CD player(variable output) that you can connect directly to a power amp around $1500? Or, should I just spend my hard earned money on a good pre-amp. I just got myself a good SS amp(Aleph 30), and dont't know what to do next. Listening to low/mid level jazz, vocals and acoustics in a 14X18 room, tend to be a minimalist/purist.

1. Will a direct connect CD player sound better than going thru a pre-amp?

2. If a pre-amp will sound better. Will the sound justify the cost(additional gear, inter-connect)?

3. How much cost of a pre-amp that will better a direct connect cd player?(No bells and whistle)

Help!!! going nuts.

Gary
garydelros

Showing 1 response by reubent

reubent
7,093 posts
 
Gary,

I use a Cary CD-308 connected directly to my amps. I think it sounds great.

I recently borrowed a highly praised $4000 tube pre-amp from a friend for a comparision. With the pre-amp in the circuit, I got slightly better dynamics, but the cost in dollars and rack space did not justify adding a pre-amp to my system.

As long as I have a single source system, it will be CD/DAC directly connected to my amps.

BTW, I have also had great results using a Theta Miles CDp(balanced version), Birdland O'deon Lite DAC, Camelot Uther Mk IV DAC connected directly to amps.

Enjoy,

TIC
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