2. amps-preamps
  3. 1220645387

Unexpected preamp needed- return policy important

I need suggestions for a preamp. My amp is a Halcro MC20, powering Newform Research hybrids. I have a Cary 306 SACD coming next week.
Several months ago I bought an Atma Sphere preamp for the Halcro. While it sounded wonderful, there was a persistent buzz from both speakers. I tried everything to diagnose the problem, all without success. The kind Audiogoner I bought it from took it back. The pre worked perfectly in his system. So I hooked up an old Ah Tjoeb/Marantz player. No feedback. So I figured I would get a CD player with a volume control. My research was detailed but sloppy. I ended up buying a used Cary SACD 306 assuming it had a volume control. Just discovered that the Cary has no control. So I have to deal with the preamp issue again.
Out of concern that I will end up dealing with feedback issues again, I want to start the search with companies with a return policy. I know that buying new is not the best bang for the buck, but I would prefer not to face the same distortion issues without that safety net. So, suggestions? And thanks.
D1
deliberate1
deliberate1 OP
33 posts
 
Additional info - the Halcro and Cary are fully balanced, so looking for this in preamp.

Narrod, the cd is my only source. Can you suggest specific passive volume controls for me to research?
Tx D1.
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
The new mono design TVC is getting some very positive feedback from audiophiles who tried it. I am not sure about the return policy.
Another option would be Bent Audio passive - based on TVC (have not heard it. But if it is as good or better then original TVC, worthy contender).
Dodd and RWA both battery powered. Both great. Bought them for similar reason - zero noise or feedback. Ultra quiet, transparent with pitch black backgrounds.
I am sure others might have more interesting recommendations.
Good luck...Oh yea, if you have only one source: a better source with volume control could also make perfect sense....if you want to get the most from that approach, get yourself $50 Goldenjack attenuators.

Just my 2c.

Good luck
Mariusz
beavis
272 posts
 
If you are primarily concerned about a return policy, I think it would be easier to purchase from a store on the WWW rather thab trying to eliminate manufacturers. An example of an on-line store with a return policy is Audio Advisor (http://www.audioadvisor.com/). Quite a few other online stores have return policies.

You also might try to buy from a manufacturer who sells direct. An example is Decware (http://www.decware.com/newsite/homepage.html).

Whatever you do, speak to someone at the store/manufacturer about their return policy. Some have rather hefty restocking charges.

Of course, the disadvantage is you can't hear first unless you don't mind or car ride or you choose a seller close by.
xti16
1,525 posts
 
I also had a slight hum when I got my Meridian G08. Lifting the ground from the power cord solved the problem. The other option was to get a power conditioner with a built in transformer to isolate the cd player. Lifting the ground was much less expensive and worked. So if you do get another device where you have a hum or buzz try a 'cheater' plug first (3 to 2 prong adapter) for the power cord.

I had the ground lifted in the power cord as not to add a dollar part to an expensive power cord and or change the sound.
ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,239 posts
 
If lifting the ground works,you can always remove the ground wire from the outlet.
Then you dont have to mess with altering the power cords. Just make sure that if you plug additional items into the same outlet they are only the 2 prong plugs.
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