2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a pre amp

My system is primarily for HT/gaming, but I've been finding myself listening to more and more music lately. Set up is:

JTR 212 RTs
Dual Rythmik G25s
Marantz 8805
Krell Chorus 5200
BS Node 2i

I'm looking to improve my 2 Channel, and don't want to go w/ monoblocks...yet. So, I think my next option is adding a dedicated pre. I was considering the McIntosh C2600, but that seems like overkill for my usage. I'm leaning towards getting an Anthem STR pre amp - heard it once and enjoyed it. Thoughts on this? I don't listen super loud right now (moving in 4-6 months) and I'm primarily punk/hip hop/rock.

Regardless, what pre's do you guys recommend? Budget is ideally $3-4K max. Thanks in advance!
128x128ethos4lyfe
14 responses Add your response
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
Go for the Anthem STR! You've already auditioned it and like it! It will match up better with your system than McIntosh!
luxmancl38
580 posts
 
I second the choice for the Anthem. Considering the music you like and the equipment you own it would be a good fit.
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
@roberjerman well, i head it on much different gear, so I can't say its a direct comparison...and I've only heard a couple dedicated pre's before, so not even sure what to "look for" LOL. I've been told to use a tube pre + SS amp fro horn speakers...but not sure if that's accurate. I know Anthem does an in home trial, so maybe I'll do that. 
luxmancl38
580 posts
 
If you want a tube alternative check out the Rogue RP-5. A little less than the Anthem. Excellent gear made in the USA.
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
Great, will check it now! I don't need the ARC of the STR, as I have a Mini DSP and my curve is right where I want it. 
big_greg
6,623 posts
 
Modwright LS100 is in your price range and has HTBP. I use it in my mixed 2 channel / HT setup. I've heard the Anthem integrated a few times and really liked it. I don't think you'd regret buying the Anthem. Either will be an improvement over the Marantz.
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
@big_greg will look at that one now - I guess I should have mentioned I'm also looking for XLR inputs on it. 
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
@big_greg actually looks like that one does have XLR. sweet. will read some reviews. I can do the anthem I home trial as well, so maybe ill a/b them 
big_greg
6,623 posts
 
It has XLR but is not fully balanced, if that matters. 
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
at this point, im not even sure I fully understand the difference (LOL) or if it will matter for my usage
yyzsantabarbara
4,811 posts
 
https://benchmarkmedia.com/blogs/application_notes/balanced-vs-unbalanced-analog-interfaces

arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 
Owning a Mac is a privilege, 
would-be fine with punk and rock!

 Plus their reliability is amazing.

buy and don’t look back!

 I love my Onkyo P-308 pre for punk and metal, she adds a smidge of low end to everything, which makes the older discharge, gbh, exploited, Mdc, venom, tank, Raven, dark Angel, Kreator etc etc,.....sounds amazing.

 The Mac will also sound amazing.

 Enjoy!
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 
The Modwright is,also,a great choice, but
 owning a Mac, is great!
   Listen to the Mac you may never look back!!
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
Yeah I think the modwright doesn't have the dac built in? or maybe it does, ive looked at so many I don't remember. I almost grabbed a primaluna evo, but realized I would also need a dac, so the price kept rising. its really between the anthem and c2600 at this point. they both have a lot of very positive features, with few cons. just need to decide if the Mac is "worth" double the price. 
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