2. amps-preamps
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Solid State preamp Brands

Hi, I was discussing options for a SS Pre. I have on a list CODA, AYRE, Bryston, Classe, Bal Canto, Holo etc.  I am strongly considering the Classe Delta Pre. Some of my audio buddies are saying that the Classe is not very good even to the point of saying it is low fi. REALLY?? I want to have 2 preamps in my system to alternate. The other is a CJ ET5 tube. any advice is appreciated.

jimbones
jimbones OP
256 posts
 

Wow a lot of great input and things to consider. Question: Does anyone else have issues with "digital" preamps. I guess they take analog input convert to digital the back to analog out>. I have a standalone dac so I m think all this extra processing is really not necessary

mofojo
2,289 posts
 

IMO I wouldn’t use a digital preamp unless you want to also use the included dac or you want to use room correction if it has that. 

russellrcncom
311 posts
 

What;s fascinating to me is that Spectral never comes up in discussions such as this.  I'm dating myself but some of the best sound I've ever heard came from a dealer using Spectral electronics with MIT cables and conditioner driving Dunlavy 4a's.  

What you haven't told us is why you are so enamored with SS and what kind of sound you are trying to achieve.

limomangus's avatar
limomangus
1,426 posts
 

CARVER has some great amps I own 2, 500 tm  amps.,they are killers.

elderion
5 posts
 

Hi guys.  Been using a Parasound JC2 BP in my main systems for about 5 years now.  I like it much better than Pioneer SX1250, Anthem AVM60, and Sony 5700ES acting as a preamp. Needing another good preamp for my living room system.  Does anyone have experience on how the Holo Audio Serene or Ayre  K-5xeMP compare to the JC2?  If so, any insight will be greatly appreciated.  P.S. not a tube fan.

Thank you!

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