2. amps-preamps
  3. 127313-4976

looking for a quality integrated that allows for bypassing of the preamp section

In a simple A/V 2-channel system, I run an Upgrade Co. modded Oppo BDP-83SE directly into my amp, which is currently a Cambridge Audio 840W.  I prefer the extra detail and transparency that going preampless offers but occasionally find the output on some movies too low, even with the volume full up.  I've thought about getting a simple preamp (Parasound zpre) and connecting just for those hard to hear movies but that seems like a real hassle.  Also considering a Creek Destiny integrated that allows for either passive or active preamplication but may need more power than the Destiny offers.  Perhaps the simplest solution would be an integrated that has the inputs that allow one to bypass the preamp and use the integrated solely as an amplifier (what's the term for this input?).  What feature would I be looking for and could I get some recommendations up to $1500 used?  Many thanks.
lcherepkai

Showing 5 responses by lcherepkai

lcherepkai OP
285 posts
 
paraneer----thank you very much for both the term I was missing and a comprehensive list .  Much appreciated!
lcherepkai OP
285 posts
 
paraneer----might there be a list of integrateds that allow you to disconnect the preamp from the amp section via jumpers?  Thanks again.
lcherepkai OP
285 posts
 
I don't mind switching the one pair of interconnects from an input to the direct input to the amp (I've seen this on some of the bigger Chinese muscle integrateds).  The big Shengya and Xindak come to mind but these just never seem to be available on the used market and going through Cattylink means getting them in 220, 230, or 240 v thus the need for a step up/down converter.  That's not a deal breaker necessarily.   Even using the HT bypass, I'd be switching that 1 pair of interconnects between that input and an active one as I'm going direct from the Oppo to the amp with the 2 channel outputs and I use the FRONT outputs from the Oppo to drive stereo subwoofers.  I would prefer not to ad a preamp though as that would require 2 cables swaps each time I went from preamp-less to using the preamp.  Thanks.
lcherepkai OP
285 posts
 
czarivey-----that's an odd choice for the circumstances.  What's your thinking on that recommendation?  I love vintage tuners but never have considered vintage amps.  My thinking is the parts available today are far superior to the old stuff.  Am I mistaken?
lcherepkai OP
285 posts
 
Yeah, there's certainly an avid group of vintage fans.  I had a buddy with an old Sansui integrated who played vinyl exclusively on Def Tech BP-8 speakers to very good effect.  Compared to my system, his was lacking detail and focus but it was always warm, and full-bodied, and very holographic and most importantly, satisfying.  So maybe you have something there.  Thanks.

And George, if I could afford the Pass or Gamut integrateds, I'd already have one of them.  They're both at least 2x what I could afford for this second system and I'm quite pleased with the big tube amp I have in the main system.  (Maybe I should just get that second job, upgrade to my heart's content, and then go from there).  Thanks for the good advice.
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