2. amps-preamps
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Which preamp for Symphonic Line Kraft amps?

Hi All;

I'm in the process of receiving a pair of Symphonic Line Kraft amps to power a pair of Dali Megalines (using a tube crossover). I'm currently using a Dodd battery powered preamp and am thinking about upgrading to either a Symphonic Line solid state amp (RG3 mk4) or the new CAT Renaissance (replaces the SL1 Ultimate mk 2?).

I'm guessing the best way to find out would be to use my ears if I can audition both units in my system, but these aren't items I can drive down the street to pick up...

Any thoughts would be appreciated though, especially regarding the SL preamps...
jonathan_s

Showing 2 responses by posbwp555

posbwp555
72 posts
 
I now use the SL Kraft 250 and the SL tubed pre. I previously owned a CAT Ult MK2. I have also heard the SL SS pre with the Kraft. Bombaywalla and Jay are both right.
The SS SL with a 1 ohm output produces deeper tighter bass than the tubed SL or the CAT. The tubed SL does other things somewhat better than the SS SL. It is a matter of taste but I would choose either over the CAT. You may end up going back to the SS crossover to drive the amp correctly and may want the things tubes bring from the preamp.

Bart
posbwp555
72 posts
 
Dev,

There is a guy from Philly that has auditioned a Karan amp
(and preamp I think) in his system. He uses Ascendo speakers (M?) and a CAT JL2. He was very unimpressed with the Karan gear. His agon moniker is ubbyglubby (Bob). Let us know what you think of the Karan gear when you hear it.

Bart
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