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My Only Question Is.........

Would someone please tell me the name of the preamplifier(s) on this planet that when inserted into the signal path between any recent Wadia cd player and any amplifier, IMPROVES upon the sound of the forementioned Wadia when compared to running it direct using its digital volume control near its peak. Remeber contestants that the better the preamp the less it imparts to the signal. Keep in mind also that answering this question intelligently would require that you have actually tried this.
petland
roue753b
4 posts
 
I recommend a Mitchell Gyrodec, Rega RB-600, Grado Reference cartridge, (sonata? master?) and a Countepoint SA-9 phono stage, if you can find one used. This would be my vote for under $5k. gotta go tubes on the phono stage!
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,243 posts
 
Petland....GET A POWERSNAKES KING COBRA!!!! I have a Wadia 860 and recently got one (it's a powercord in case you aren't familiar) It is the biggest improvment I have ever experienced. Not cheap at 2000.00, but definatly worth it if you consider the diffrence it makes.
carl_eber
1,425 posts
 
You need ASC traps, if you don't have them.
augustusjohn
5 posts
 
I have tried the wadia straight in and it clearly is inferior sounding without the THOR preamp in the signal path, loses the soundstage, as well as depth, also decreased dynamics; this is true of bothe the wadia 7+9; the wadia 830i and also the 860x
gary_m
34 posts
 
If you want to stay away from a preamp but still do analog you could get a EAR 834P. That is a phono preamp that plugs directly into you amp. You just have to make sure you get the one with the volume control on it. It is a tubed unit and just sounds amazing. It has a great review in Stereophile although they hardly do it justice, but lets not go there. It's a great way to get both worlds and new it only goes for $1200 you can find them sometimes on the used market for around $650. If you don't mind switching cables this might be the answer for you. For a turntable I have a Basis 1400 with a Rega RB 300 tonearm and I love it. Best of luck in your quest!-Gary
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