2. cables
  3. 128757-17071

New Preamp...New Cables???

Bought a Hovland Preamp 100 used here on Audiogon.  Pairing it with Parasound Halo A23 Power Amp. Using Synergistic Research Alpha RCAs for past 7 or so years.

Opinions from you folks on if it's worth it to "upgrade" interconnects going to Power Amp and Digital source to Hovland Pre.

Nothing crazy, maybe 2 pair for 200 per tops... Have to draw the line somewhere I guess.  

Thank You
papostol
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 

Just trying to give you a "heads up" about your amp/preamp combination. Due to measurements of the preamp, Stereophile recommends an amp with at least a 47k ohm input impedance. The input impedance of the Parasound A23 is significantly lower at 33k ohm. As stated, bass response will be lean.

http://www.stereophile.com/content/hovland-hp-100-preamplifier-measurements#8C13ttFAAxuFK2Df.97

I have experienced this type of amp/preamp mismatch, and using the proper amp to mate with the tube preamp made much more than a slight difference.

papostol OP
12 posts
 
thanks for that.  I was wondering.  can I modify amp?
papostol OP
12 posts
 
I was looking for a DAC...guess I'm looking for a used power amp. whose got one??
sfall
346 posts
 
" I was looking for a DAC...guess I'm looking for a used power amp. whose got one??"

You have one. It would be foolish to get a different amp before you try the one you already have. 
 Report this
papostol OP
12 posts
 
But am I defeating the purpose of the expensive pre by keeping halo?  

More to discover