2. amps-preamps
  3. 1016619081

Would I be a happy boy with an ARC CA-50?

I found an ARC CA-50 on Audiogon ad. I've read reviews of it from time to time, but I've never used one before.

I am mainly interested in this integrated amp to stop me from spending more on audio purchases. Ok, I know that won't happen. But, at least, I don't need to buy too many cables with an integrated.

Anyhow, I have a pair of KEF 103/4. I can only find specs on KEF.com for the current Reference 1 and 2, which the 103/4 is in between in regards to technical specs. The sensitivity - 2.83v @ 1m would be around 88db. The living room is about 20x15x10.

Sound preference: I like analytical dry "British" sounding audio gear like KEF and Tannoy professional speakers. As long as the detail is accurate, there is ample soundstage and the frequency response is flat, I am a happy boy.

Thanks y'all.
viggen

Showing 5 responses by viggen

viggen OP
838 posts
 
Oops, the seller of the CA-50 just informed me that it has a variable sub out...
viggen OP
838 posts
 
Hey,

Thanks for the advice. I just purchased a CA-50 this morning. My speaker is 4 ohm. Sorry I left that information out.
viggen OP
838 posts
 
Max,

I think CA-50 has preouts for an amp or sub. You can use that if you don't mind driving your speakers full range with the CA50. I hope the CA50 has a good phonostage too. I haven't used my turntable in ages.

Glen,

Did you win the lottery? What speakers did you get? And that's ONLY your bedroom system......
viggen OP
838 posts
 
Hey Max,

I stand corrected. It has a subout, but at least the output is variable? This way, if I am to power the LF with my aragon, which might be too much for the CA50 since it has 250w@4ohm, I wouldn't need another attenuator.

TT isn't a big deal to me for now. I only have this 15 yr old Luxman. It would be a plus to be able to use it. I guess I can get a phono preamp like from creek to go into the "phono" input of the CA50.

Nope, not having preouts and phono inputs isn't a big deal. It would be nice to have tho.
viggen OP
838 posts
 
Max,

I double checked. Eventhought ARC's website describes the "preouts" to be a subsonic or multiroom output, I surmise it is a full range pre-out, thus the CA-50 can be used as a preamp as well. First of all, it makes no sense that the CA50 can be used to operate in multiroom situation if the output isn't full range. Second, I check Audioreview, for the 5th time, and one reviewer stated the CA50 is close to his LS15 when used as a preamp. Doesn't that give your shivers down your spine? Ok it's just me.

Glen,

Nothing exceeds excess because excess already exceeds excess so excess can't logically exceed itself. = D

Glen,

I am one person to choose my stereo over my girlfriend, so I don't place a nice system in my bedroom incase my girlfriend gets jealous. I hope you don't have the same problem = D

You take care too!
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