2. amps-preamps
  3. 1064374645

Good Preamp for Adcom GFA-5400 $500 new or used

Hello all,

I am searching for a pre amp to mate with my Adcom Power amp, a GFA-5400. I would like if it has a full function remote as well. I have stated a price above, but if it is worth it I could go a bit above.

Here is my present setup:
Hafler DH-100 pre amp
Adcom GFA-5400 power amp
M-Audio Super DAC 2496
Sony D-EJ955 as transport
B&W DM601 speakers
Cable Talk interconnects
Ixos Gamma speaker cable

I miss the convenience of a remote control even though I enjoy the sound of my system(although a touch harsh up top at higher volumes, it is much better than what I previously had).

I have considered some preamps, which are:
Adcom GTP450, GTP500, GTP502
Parasound Halo C3
Anthem TLP1
B&K PT3 and PT5

I am looking for something to smooth out the top end without losing any detail or dynamics in the process.
I am leaning towards the GTP502 at present.

I unfortunately don't live in a place where I can audition anything worthwhile (St. Vincent, a barely known Caribbean island), so that leaves me to the reviews and opinions of other more experienced audiophiles like yourselves.

Any suggestions would be welcome for a good pre or even any other component that looks too out of place in my setup. (I plan to get a cd player soon as well. I am fedup with a meddlesome sony changer I have so I am using the discman in the interim)

Thanks,
Duane
eccbo

Showing 1 response by nhtran

nhtran
45 posts
 
Personally, in the $500 range, I would go passive. There are a few things you have to watch out for...
since the source (I presume it's a cd player) is driving the amp you need to match the output impedance of the cd with the input impedance of the amp. Also keep the cables as short as possible.

There are some very cheap (under $300) used passive pre-amps I like (Creek, Mod Squad to name a few).

Good luck.
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