Pre Amplifier Reviews
Roksan Caspian M-Series-1 pre Amp Review
Roksan Caspian M-series-1 pre
Price : £1650
Rating : 9.7/10
Looks are not the strong point of the Roksan Caspian M-series-1 preamp, but if it’s stunning sound that you’re looking for then the Caspian is for you. Using the same casework as the Roksan M-Series integrated amplifier this amp will win no prizes in a beauty competition, but the sound is little short of stunning. Using the same philosophy facilities are nothing to write home about either.
The company has put all of its efforts into the sonic abilities and it shows. Unusually for a preamp it utilizes a dual mono design with great attention to the power supplies, using separate supplies for left and right channels, optional phono stage, and logic system. There’s a symmetrical layout utilised for maximum performance. The transparency of the Roksan is staggering, with resolution to match.
If you’re expecting an upgraded Caspian M-series then be prepared for a shock, the preamp is a huge step forward. It works best with Roksan HCD-02A interconnect, likewise used with Roksan power-amps the results are optimised. Partner this with anything less than the best and any shortcomings will be ruthlessly exposed. Used with decent equipment however this amp delivers with excellent timing and aplomb. The meticulous presentation with amazing detail make this preamp a class leader.
Specifications
Line level in 5
MM phono in 0
MC phono in 0
Tape loops 1
Preamp out Yes
Balanced out No
Headphone out No
Tone controls No
Remote control Yes
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 44x8x33
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Cyrus Pre XP D Pre Amplifier Review
Cyrus Pre XP d
Price : £1300
Rating : 9.8/10
With an enviable reputation to consider, Cyrus have an incredible reputation for producing excellent sounding Hi Fi. This is a preamp that reveals astonishing levels of detail that were previously veiled. The precision and timing that the Cyrus Pre XP d delivers is nothing short of astonishing. The sonic ability of the Cyrus leaves competitors in the shade. Listening to the Cyrus makes you suddenly aware of many nuances that you were previously completely unaware of.
The Cyrus opens up a completely new avenue of enjoyment, and you soon find yourself thinking ‘I wonder what my favourite CD sounds like – Oh but what about this one, or that?’. There are few preamps around at any price that could give the Cyrus a run for its money, particularly used in combination with the Cyrus 8 XP.
The advantage of owning a Cyrus doesn’t stop there; there are numerous upgrades available from Cyrus for future use. For example there is the possible addition of the PSX-R power supply for use with the Cyrus Pre XP d, and also the Cyrus 8 power amp. Cyrus amps are extremely versatile and upgradeable, one of the best sounding amps anywhere, and recommendation is mandatory.
Specifications
Line level in 6
MM phono in 0
MC phono in 0
Tape loops 0
Preamp out Yes
Balanced out No
Headphone out Yes
Tone controls No
Remote control Yes
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 7x22x36
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NAD C165BEE Pre Amplifier Review
NAD C165BEE
Price : £650
Rating : 8.6/10
If you’re looking for brawn and magnitude then look no further, the NAD C165BEE preamp has just what you’re looking for. When coupled with the NAD C275BEE power amplifier it has the ability to play loudly with consummate ease. The powerful dynamics and deep powerful bass are its forte and takes on all types of music in its stride. There are few that can match its thunderous bass with such authority. The NAD C165BEE is well specified having both MC and MM inputs, and a full feature list.
Where it doesn’t quite match its better rivals is in transparency and tonal balance, being good enough but not outstanding. The NAD avoids being too ham-fisted and burly that some of the competition can be accused of.
There are better finished preamps around, some that are more nimble, but again the NAD is good enough to warrant a recommendation.
Specifications
Line level in 4
MM phono in 1
MC phono in 1
Tape loops 2
Preamp out Yes
Balanced out No
Headphone out Yes
Tone controls Yes
Remote control Yes
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 8x44x29
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Rotel RC-1580 Pre Amplifier Review
Rotel RC-1580
Price : £995
Rating : 7.8/10
The Rotel RC-1580 preamp has a commanding yet unobtrusive quality that is well built and finished to a very high level. There’s a quality feel to the Rotel that exudes confidence and makes you feel that this will be around for many years to come. Rotel have been around for many years producing quality Hi Fi that’s competitive. Well featured with no less than 5 line inputs as well as a decent quality MM and MC to boot.
The phono stage is a fine one, quiet, and delivering a high level of lucidity and a good dose of dynamics. It includes balance and tone controls, more of a scarcity at this level.
The Rotel RC-1580 doesn’t quite match the exact timing, or transparency that others give, but nevertheless produces an engaging enjoyable sound. Dynamics are full and powerful, as are the deep and controlled bass. Perhaps not quite as agile as competitors, it just performs flawlessly without drawing excessive attention to itself.
Well worth an audition especially if you’re looking for a decent phono stage to be included. With its commanding, inconspicuous nature the Rotel delivers without making a fuss.
Specifications
Line level in 5
MM phono in 1
MC phono in 1
Tape loops 2
Preamp out Yes
Balanced out No
Headphone out Yes
Tone controls Yes
Remote control Yes
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 10x43x34
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Quad 99 Pre Amplifier Review
Quad 99
Price : £750
Rating : 8.4/10
For many years now Quad have done things differently from the rest, and has built up an enviable reputation in the mean time. The Quad 99 is no exception with a diversity of tone control functions including Quads traditional tilt function. The flexibility of the Quad 99 is second to none incorporating a phono stage that can be switched to either moving coil, or moving magnet, and the cartridge loading can also be adjusted for optimum performance. The Quadlink that is used is unique in that it connects other Quad 99 equipment to each other via a flat cable and allows communication between them.
If used with other equipment then you just use the normal connections. The casing is a one piece unit that is beautifully made, and has a sold, quality feel to it.This degree of flexibility usually comes with a compromise of sonic shortcomings.
Not so with the Quad it equits itself admirably, sounding as good as anything in its price range. Its excellent resolution coupled with muscular dynamics make it a worthy contender. The bass performance is quick and controlled especially when used with a Quad power amp. The clarity of the midrange is a delight with a very sweet nature. Thunderous orchestrals are handled with confidence.
With well over 50 years of producing top quality Hi Fi Quad are not about to let their reputation lapse with a piece of average equipment, the Quad 99 keeps up this tradition of being the best and well worthy of recommendation.
Specifications
Line level inputs 4
MM phono in 3
MC phono in 3
Tape loops 1
Preamp out Yes
Balanced out No
Headphone out No
Tone controls Yes
Remote control Yes
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 33x7x31
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