New member Username: Fallen_dragonUK Post Number: 1 Registered: Aug-07 | Hey All System so far: Rega Planet 2000CD, H/K TU970 tuner, Quad 34, Quad 606, Quad 11L speakers. I've had the 34 updated, new caps, upgraded op amps, but it's sounding vague, undetailed, the staging isnt great. As most I cant afford a fortune but thought maybe an Audiolab 8000Q, or maybe the NAD C162, or even the Quad QC24, any thoughts, suggestions, comments? All the best Graham UK |
Platinum Member Username: Jan_b_vigneDallas, TX Post Number: 11088 Registered: May-04 | . Others will have different opinions, but I'd tell you our two choices are not in keeping with the Quad sound. If you think it's the pre amp that's sub-par, which it probably is, then my first choice would be a passive pre amp. Since you have no phono requirements, a passive can bring very good sound at lower than expected prices. Have you considered such a product? http://search.yahoo.com/bin/search?fr=ybr_sbc&p=passive%20pre%20amplifier . |
Platinum Member Username: Jan_b_vigneDallas, TX Post Number: 11091 Registered: May-04 | . http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0102/preamplifiers.htm http://search.yahoo.com/bin/search?fr=ybr_sbc&p=passive%20pre%20amplifier |
New member Username: Fallen_dragonUK Post Number: 2 Registered: Aug-07 | Actually yes, I've been recommended the Luminous Audio Axiom, also the Creek OBH22 and the NVA 50. I know there are a lot of 'high end' passives out there but I really do baulk at paying over £1000 (even if I could afford it) for a volume control in a box. I know there is a lot more to think of with passives then a regular pre amp (frankly all that input capacitance stuff scares the hell out of me)You think it's worth it? Cheers Graham |
Platinum Member Username: Jan_b_vigneDallas, TX Post Number: 11092 Registered: May-04 | . I don't know the input impedance of your power amplifier. It needs to be 100kOhms or higher for a passive to work well. Otherwise, you'll be looking at the more expensive passives which are now using autoformers to buffer input output impedance. Expensive passives are a dicey affair. It's hard to justify the pricing of some models. But keep in mind, the quality of the parts is what sets one passive apart from another in many cases. An excellent volume control/pot is required to get the best out of your system. Lower priced pots will affect the performance, though a decent passive unit will often beat a much more expensive active pre amp. IMO, they are certainly where you are most likely to get the most bang for the dollar. Find a company willing to do a 30 day trial and give a listen. Not many "mainline" audio companies bother with passive pre amps. Live on the edge for awhile. . |