2. amps-preamps
  3. 167202-162283

How to fix my preamp dilemma

My NAD integrated succumbed to old age and I found a Parasound Zamp3/Zpre2 combo on Ebay and pulled the trigger. Even this expenditure was somewhat controversial in my marital landscape, some people just don't understand audio fidelity doesn't grow on trees! For <$400, I couldn't have been happier, everything was great......but 8 months in the preamp started switching between channels and has a loud humming noise that seems like it's coming from the transformer, it powers on but is unresponsive.

From here I could use some advice from the knowledgeable, I'm not sure fixing the Zpre2 is money well spent, my first inclination was to find a used Zpre3, but there aren't any around. What seems more attainable at a reasonable price is a used Schiit Saga+, or an oldler Adcom, is it a bad idea to jump ship to another manufacturer given that the Zamp/Zpre are likely designed to function together?
sturdy

Showing 8 responses by mesch

mesch
3,530 posts
 
What are you using for a source? 
mesch
3,530 posts
 
Spotify downloads, via what device? A DAC. I am asking because you might get by using a passive preamp.
mesch
3,530 posts
 
How did you connect the apple tv to the preamp? Or did you go thru the tv?
mesch
3,530 posts
 
Ok. You are running apple tv into tv via HDMI then from tv to preamp via a pair of analog RCAs. You are using the DAC within the tv. Correct?

Your tv should have digital output. Likely optical. Yes? 
Another question, how many inputs were you using on the preamp?
mesch
3,530 posts
 
There is a Schiit Audio Modi optical input DAC for sale on Ebay. Current bid is $40 and 10$ shipping. Would make for a true improvement over the TV optical output if that is what it has. 
mesch
3,530 posts
 
Given you are on a tight budget, I am working to solve your problem on a strict budget so you get your music (also video?) back until you have the funds to upgrade. My approach would be to buy a budget DAC and a passive preamp. 

I was thinking that you could run digital out of your TV into the DAC then thru a passive preamp into the amplifier. 

Hence the questions. 
mesch
3,530 posts
 
Yes, often the analog output is a 3.5mm headphone output 

you would improve the sonic qualities for both music and video with a outboard DAC. Most DAC outputs would allow for use of a passive preamp. Look up the Schiit Modi DACs. I believe it would be a great place to start. Would serve well with the parasound pre/ amp.

in the interim, a passive pre will work. 
mesch
3,530 posts
 
To repeat, I recommend the DAC as an upgrade to your current system. The Schiit Modi 3 retails for $100 plus shipping. It has coax, opticak and USB inputs. There is a optical input only version on Ebay with a current bid of $40 if that is the only input you need. 

I recommend the passive preamp route as a way to control volume between the DAC and amplifier as a way to avoid the cost of an active preamplifier. Schiit SYS passive pre allows for 2 inputs selectable by front button. Sells for $50 plus shipping. 
Another one, the Nobsound Passive pre sold by a US distributor, Doukmall, on Ebay, has single input and sells for $40 with shipping.  It is just a volume control in a aluminum box. I own both. If only needing single input I would purchase the Nobsound. 

You may find the use of a passive preamp to be all you need. Either way will serve until you are positioned to purchase a new active one.
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