that would explain the issue. I bought the Pear unboxed and assumed as you pointed out that it had an on board phono stage due to the labeled phone inputs.
as the adage goes...when you assume... thank you br3098!
Technics MK2 > Pear Audio Blue Integrated Amp
Audiogon Community,
I'm just wading into the Hi-Fi world and wanted to get some input on my phono set-up. I'm running a Technics MK2 with a Grado Gold cartridge > Marantz Cinema 70s phono input > Pear Audio Blue (55w p/c) integrated amp (via pure direct Zone 2 output).
I am impressed with the sound stage as it's a dramatic improvement over my previous set up but I am finding that I am really having to crank the volume on the Marantz to get the desired output and appreciate the full spectrum. Is this normal?
To me, it doesn't make sense on paper to put another phono stage in line before the Pear as it is integrated but would this be a viable option? Perhaps wait until I can afford more robust amplification components? Maybe the Technics is the weak link?
I am using Anti interconnects and Auditorium 23 speaker cables + DeVore Silverback Reference speakers. Appreciate your takes!
-Mike
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Absolutely-- it is quite elegant and I've been impressed with its output despite the Marantz not being the optimal preamp. I'm psyched to hear the difference when I'm able to integrate a proper preamp. I went looking for a Croft preamp in the spirit of keeping the engineering consistent but had difficulty finding any second hand. I may end up going for the Remton V383. Truly appreciate your insight! |
@mitaliano You mean a phono preamp, I assume. No line preamp required with the Pear Audio integrated amp. If you're planning to run MM you don't necessarily need anything really super elaborate. The Croft (or Pear Audio) would be ideal but as you related they are scarce as hen's teeth. If you can't find a good tube phono preamp at your budget than start with a good budget solid state phono stage. Or head amp, if you will be using a LO cartridge.
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