2. amps-preamps
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Integrated vs using DAC or old NAD 1700

I'm considering a Bryston B100 integrated, which is essentially a 2bsst amp + a BP16 preamp. But I don't really know how much impact the preamp will have. What if I went with the 2bsst + my old NAD 1700 Monitor Series preamp? How about the 2bsst + a DAC with volume control like the Bel Canto DAC 2.5?

If its not going to make an appreciable difference, I'd rather put the $ saved by using the old NAD preamp (or even the smaller $ saved using the DAC) on music.

What do you guys think?
doug999999

Showing 1 response by magfan

magfan
1,583 posts
 
Owned a 1700 for 20+ years, from new.
Really flexible 3x turnover tone controls, good phono section and rumble filter.

What's not to like? BTW, I think I bought mine in '87 or so.......

That being said....I don't know how well the NAD house sound blends with the colder Bryston.

What kind of speakers are you using? If you contemplate a sub, the 2nd set of preouts on the NAD may come in handy, even though they are 10v for long runs.

Many competent / good integrateds out there without spending at the Bryston level. NAD? Cambridge? Rotel? You could even go the Emotiva route, but that's not the way I'd go.

If 'ya gottta have the Bryston, go all the way.
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