Pre-Power Balance

Posted by: TommyT on 18 September 2002

Hi,
I am interested in your views on where to allocate budget for the next upgrade.
Current system: CD3.5+Hi, 92+Hi, 90, Shahinian Compass speakers sitting on HNE granite plinths and Black Snaic/NACA5 speaker cable.
Given that I am trying to move house at the moment budget for upgrades is minimal (i.e. I shouldn't be doing it). However, assuming I am buying used and can off load my existing pre-power at a reasonable price, would I be better off allocating money equally between the pre- and power amps (e.g. a 72/140) or put it all into one component (e.g. a 102 or a 180). If the latter, I would probably have to wait a couple of years before doing the other half of the combo.
My objective is to open the treble out and gain a little more separation but also to add some bass control and weight to the sound at all frequencies (somehow I get the feeling that is what we are all trying to achieve...). Budget is £500 max.
Also, as components improve, does there come a point at which it is better to put far more into the pre- rather than power amp, assuming that the source keeps pace with the upgrades?
Any views?
Rgds,
Tom
Posted on: 27 March 2003 by Bosh
Having heard one sound absolutely superb a couple of weeks ago fed by a Creek CD through vintage SBLs, I would plump for a NAC72(£300)/NAP250 (£800) combo utilising the Hicap from the 92

Total cost of £650 (if you can get £450 for the 92/90)

Alternatively sell the 3.5 Hicap for £400 and the cost is then £250