2. amps-preamps
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Need complete stereo help starting with preamp

I recently bought a Rega P3 planning on upgrading my whole conventional JVC system and don't know where to start. I am limited on space for speakers although am trying to fill a fairly large room with sound. I am planning on purchasing either some 601 B&Ws or something a little larger and do not have much understanding of amps/preamps. Do I need to buy a phono preamp and a preamp to go along with whatever amp I choose or is that neccesary? Would I be better off buying an integrated amp/preamp? I would like to spend under $1000 on my amp/preamp combo to get me started. What would you guys reccomend in that price range? (it does not neccesarily have ot be new equipment) Thanks in Advance!

Andy
aanderson
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Hmmm- How about the Audio Refinement Complete (I've had one, it is a very nice, neutral unit) and a Lehman Black Cube with the upgraded power supply. Should be able to stay under $1k used.
sean
6,231 posts
 
For $1200 and some very cautious and patient shopping on the used market, you can have a preamp / power amp that is staggeringly good for the money invested. If you are in a hurry and want to do this now while the cash is still in your pocket, you'll have to go with what you can find that will suit your needs. If you want to buy new, you'll end up with an integrated. If buying used here on Agon, you can do either one and end up with very nice sounds. Sean
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aanderson OP
2 posts
 
Much appreciated fellas. Now I feel like there's some sort of direction. I'll do a little research and let you know how it all shakes out.

Pros & Cons of tube and solid state integrated?

Thanks again, Andy
flg2001's avatar
flg2001
543 posts
 
Depends on tastes mostly Andy, my impression is that a tubed integrated will give you a sense of more musicality and roundness to music reproduction, a solid state one will place more dynamics and bass extension (being musical as well if you go for the Naim route for example)

Consider your musical tastes as well as speaker-room variable into the equation.

Fernando
tgrisham
1,291 posts
 
I recommend listening to the Creek 5350 SE integrated. I bought it from music direct online (great service, by the way). It is wonderful: dead quiet, an honest 85 W/ch, has record outs, you can separate the pre-amp from the amp for future upgrades, small footprint. Online price is $1349, they may negotiate. Good luck!
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