2. amps-preamps
  3. 186582-185400

Preamp to Pair with NAD M23

Hi everyone,

I recently got a NAD M23 to replace an Adcom GFA-555 that I've been using the past 10 years.  I am using a Bryston 11B as a preamplifier currently along with an Arcam irDAC to drive a pair of Kef 104/2s.  Overall, I am pretty happy with the sound but am curious about newer preamplifiers.  The sound stage and imaging with the NAD is definitely an improvement to the Adcom especially at lower volume levels.  I have been looking at the Benchmark HPA4 as a potential replacement and using the Bryston as a phono preamp.  For anyone with experience with any of these components would a major upgrade or more of a lateral move as I understand that Bryston and Benchmark are both known to be fairly neutral.  Any other suggestions are welcome as well.  Thanks.

 

Andrew

teetrain

Showing 4 responses by teetrain

teetrain OP
4 posts
 

Good point.  I am looking to keep the sound fairly neutral.  The Kefs are a little on the warm side which is what I prefer.  I am looking to potentially increase soundstage and transparency more at low to moderate volumes if possible.  Thanks.

teetrain OP
4 posts
 

Thanks everyone for the suggestions.  I went with the Linear Tube MZ2 after checking out some reviews.  I'll report back on the sound when it gets here.  

teetrain OP
4 posts
 

Hey everyone, I got the microZOTL with LPS in last week.  Initially the right channel was muted and I reached it to LTA.  They were great even with me buying this used and recommended getting a new pair of matched input tubes.  This fixed the issue and it sounds great.  The soundstage is great and it sounds awesome at low and high volume.  Particularly vocals and piano sound much more lifelike.  Thanks everyone for the recommendations.  Definitely going to be looking for some headphones to try at some point.

teetrain OP
4 posts
 

It sounds great, definitely a great pairing to my ears.  I initially was using a Bryston 11B as well as a Linn Kairn and prefer it over both.  The MZ2 is has a much better soundstage/imaging and vocals sound right.  

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