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Preamp for Parasound A21?

Just got a pair of Thiel CS2.4 and want to pair them with Parasound A21. However, I don't really like any of Parasound's preamps. The JC2 is very nice but overpriced (to my pocket anyway). The other Parasound pre's don't really interest me. I don't really hold out much hope for the forthcoming P5 either.

Anyway, can you suggest a pre around the $2000 mark that will mate well with the A21 and the Thiels? Also wondering if a tube pre might be a good idea in this context? Would much appreciate your thoughts and suggestions. Thanks in advance.
agm
jonathan1257
82 posts
 
I use an A-21 with a pair of Thiel 3.6s. I initally auditioned a used Audio Research SP-17 that sounded fantastic, but the owner would not lower the price below $2000. I ended up with an SP-16 instead. Not quite as special overall, but still excellent sounding. If you don't need the phono preamp, you could go with a used LS-16 or LS-17 and be within your budget. Good luck.
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,377 posts
 
What do you have for source? If the source can output more than 2V, then I would suggest a Passive or TVC route. The A21 is a very sensitive and I have been successful using a TVC in my system. TVCs are very transparent and the basic ones do not cost an arm and a leg. But GAIN is important for this configuration to work!
agm OP
6 posts
 
Milpai, for source, I have a Clearaudio Concept TT and a Quad 99CDP.
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,377 posts
 
Agm,i you get a passive pre-amp or TVC with a XLR out to A21, you will have more than enough gain in the system. The reason is that the 2.4V from the Quad CDP will be seen as 4.8V on XLR to A21. This made a HUGE difference in dynamics in my system. If you do not intend to go XRL between the passive preamp or TVC and the A21, then I would suggest you to avoid the passive preamp or TVC.
I have no idea on TT and what how much voltage it sends to the preamp. Good Luck in your search.
audiozen
831 posts
 
Agm..you may want to consider the new Parasound Halo P-5 Pre-amplifier that has been pushed back to a late June release. The Preamp has everything. Built in phono stage, bass management, digital inputs with a built in DAC. Price is set at $ 1400.00
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