2. amps-preamps
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Used Preamp on a budget advice please.

I’m currently running a top of the line Yamaha AVR as my preamp in a system consisting of a Threshold S500/II, B&W 802 S2 and B&W 801 S2 speakers, which I swap from time to time. I’m also just using a Yamaha DVD player as a CD player, but am planning to buy an older, higher end CD player as well. I also use a PC with iTunes running to an Audioengine D1 DAC. I also have a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon turntable and would need to a phono amp for the products listed below.

I’m going to add an older preamp (with remote) for 2 channel to try to extract more definition, depth, etc, and to try to warm up the sound (the plan is to add a passive, high quality RCA switch to choose between preamp and AVR). I have a limited budget of up $700 and have been doing lots of looking. It appears that for my budget and need for a remote control, older pre/pro’s may be the best approach. I’m curious if anyone has any advice, opinion, or ideas on my approach and the following preamp possibilities:

Classe SSP-300
Classe SSP-75
Classe SSP-30 MK II
Cary Cinema 6
Simaudio Moon Stargate
Parasound C2
Krell Showcase PR
Krell KAV-250P

Thanks!
dastro
pascal1267
2 posts
 
Hi, for your budget and prefered signature sound you might consider the Audio-gd Master 1. This is a wonderful preamp with great imaging, details, punchy and refined sound. Way superior to Musical Fidelity  a5 pre and Teddy Pardo PR1. Also the synergy with my Forte 1a (Threshold) is really nice, and maybe better (surely different) than with the Audio-gd Master 3 power amp. Just my 50 cents. 
alfau7's avatar
alfau7
72 posts
 
As you, I had a Yamaha, and after a lot of research with a similar budget of yours, I got an anthem avm 20 and is great, make some research on them maybe you can reach a avm 30 or even a 40
dstroman
1 posts
 
I've decided to try a few options, new and old. I bought a Krell KAV-250P and a Parasound P5. 

I got a great deal on both and each has home theater pass through.  The Krell comes highly recommended as does the P5, but maybe to a slightly lesser degree. I'll post my findings after listening. 

wcheng2
40 posts
 
Check out the Morrison ELAD too...only 2 inputs but sounds great
timlub
2,039 posts
 
Of these, I've only heard the Krell, Its not as good as the newer Krells.  I have heard a few Old Classe,   The 6 & 60 are both great, the 6 is a bit darker than the 60. 
Also,  look at a Muse Model 3 Signature and an Audio Research LS9,  Might find an Adcom GFP750 at that price, then by a sheer stroke of luck maybe a  Belcanto Pre1... Pre 2 or 3 would be great, but I doubt that you'll find one at your price point... Good hunting, Tim
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