"I just added a pair of SVS SB 13 Ultra subs and was wondering if adding a preamp would provide better results"
Yes, but you have to get the right preamp. |
"The Bricasti M1 sounds much better direct than the DSD."
That's your reference, so whatever you do, you'll need to compare it so you don't make a backwards move. A preamp is a very personal choice. So whatever is recommended, by me or anyone else, needs to be followed up with a demo. I really can't stress that enough. A preamp is the one component you really can't afford to mess up. Also consider that you have good sound now, going direct with your dac. When you already have good sound, its much easier to make a mistake than an improvement.
I'll start off with 2 recommendations. For solid state, I would look at an Ayre K-5, and for tubes, an Aesthetix Calypso. Those 2 pieces do everything right, and work well with a wide variety of components. Either should go very well with your Rowland. |
"I want better separation between instruments and better front to back placement of instruments.How to get there(what's my weakest link) and how much it's going to cost is the question? It may be time to investigate replacing my Aerial 7Ts!"
At this level, its not good enough to just pick components. In order to get what you are looking for in the above quote, you must consider at the whole system. One mismatched piece can ruin the systems ability to image properly.
Just to give a real example of what I mean, my system consists of speakers and electronics that excel at imaging, scale, soundstage, etc.. I have this one Jeff Rowland amp, and it doesn't matter what system I put it in. With the Rowland, the imaging goes from 3d to 2d. Its just a good example of why you can't take anything for granted when putting together a high end system. Most people would assume an expensive amp like that would automatically work with no problems. |
"Yes, it's a system, but each component can impact the overall signature of the sound. "
True, but I'm not sure if you understood the point I was trying to make. Each component does impact the overall signature of the sound. However, you can put a component in the system that takes away from the others. Going back to my Rowland example, when I put it in the system, it doesn't allow the other components to do things they normally do. |
Ricred1,
I believe every word you are saying. I just used my Rowland as an example of how things can go wrong when you least expect it. If you chose your Rowland because you liked it best, then you made the right choice. I still keep my Rowland, even though its not currently being used, because it does do things that no other amp I've heard at any price, or design does. Equipment matching is not bashing. Sometimes good components don't work well together. |
That's what I figured, but I just wanted to make sure you didn't take offence to any of my comments. |
"Yes, anyone can have an opinion based on their experience; however if you not familiar with any of the components in question, why on earth would I take your advice? To my knowledge, Guido and Schacter are the only individuals that have direct experience with the JR 525 and/or the JR Continuum S2."
I get it, but you're not being consistent. In some of your other posts, you appear to have no problem discussing different components, as well.
06-02-15: Ricred1
Zd542,
Any suggestions on preamps I should listen to? I had a Parasound JC2 BP and to my ears it degraded the sound when compared to the PS Audio DSD I had at the time. The Bricasti M1 sounds much better direct than the DSD.
06-03-15: Ricred1
Onhwy61,
I'm looking into speakers now. A few on my list are Joseph Audio Perspectives and Dynaudio C2s. |
I also agree with the vertical biamp recommendation. I do this in my own system and get great results. All you need are 2 stereo amps (exactly the same), and a pair of speakers with 2 sets of binding posts. You have both so its just a matter of making the connections and trying it out. I'm kind of surprised Rowland didn't mention this option when you called them. |
I'm not trying to 2nd guess your decision, or anything like that. We're just recommending that if you have all the equipment already in your possession, you've got nothing to loose trying it both ways, vertical and bridged. Honestly, I can't say if the bridging will be an improvement. I've never bridged Rowland gear, so I'm looking forward to hearing your comments on how it sounds. The vertical will sound better than a single. The question is how much better, and is it worth it. That has to be your call. In my system, I have 2 Ayre V-5's running vertical, and I'm very happy with the results. |
