2. amps-preamps
  3. 1301856006

Fairly cheap SS preamp with a good phono preamp?

Does it make sense to run a good phono pre- into a fairly cheap solid state linestage? For instance, the Cary CPA-1 pre that's for sale in the Classifieds for $649, with an outboard, upgraded Basis phono stage (which I have)?

I'm running the Basis through a BAT VK3ix preamp, but could I sell off the BAT and switch to the Cary without degrading the sound too much? I really like the sound of the Basis through the BAT, but I wouldn't mind a more analytical sound and a little less warmth, which is why I'm thinking about SS options. The rest of my system is a Bryston 4BST amp, Hyperion HP-938 speakers, and a Rega P5 TT. I listen to vinyl almost exclusively but also use a N. Tjoeb CD player and a Wadia DAC/i-pod doc at times. Thanks!
klein_rogge

Showing 1 response by jedinite24

jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Klein

This may sound crazy given the gear that you mention above but how about an Emotiva USP-1 preamp?

Another member here, Ferrari, who to me has a lot of credibility given the reviews he has done in the past and is very thorough in his review process praised the USP-1.

Emotiva USP-1 Review

I have a USP-1 now and am enjoying it although my gear is really budget compared to yours. The phono section on the USP-1 to me sounded a lot better than the NAD PP2 I had previously.

Good luck in your search.
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