Tom Evans Vibe versus 552? 252? 52?
Posted by: Top Cat on 05 May 2003
Hiya folks.
As I'm starting my research into a possible new preamp purchase at the end of the year (or possibly early next year) I am doing some research into different options.
EVeryone speaks highly of the 52, and for that reason I'm keen to hear the new 252 as an option for my system. Sonics aside, the attraction of a single volume pot and a remote control is high.
Then we have the 552 which I have not heard. Looks nice, but the price is scary. I am sure it is all it is cracked up to be - it would have to be at that price! - but alas it is beyond my means, so I really shouldn't listen to it...
The real curio is the Tom Evans kit - reviewed with praise, seems to come from a similar direction as my current preamp but in a form that at least allows me to ditch a volume pot (if you have ever used a dual pot preamp you'll know where I'm coming from).
So, sonically, what I want to know is where it fits in, performance-wise, relative to the 552 and 252. It's not as pricy as even the outgiong 52, but reviews have been glowing. I have no idea who stocks them - probably nobody within a day's round-trip - and would like to hear but will have to rely on the experiences of others in the short-term.
Has anyone heard both? Comments?
John
TC '..'
"Girl, you thought he was a man, but he was a Muffin..."
As I'm starting my research into a possible new preamp purchase at the end of the year (or possibly early next year) I am doing some research into different options.
EVeryone speaks highly of the 52, and for that reason I'm keen to hear the new 252 as an option for my system. Sonics aside, the attraction of a single volume pot and a remote control is high.
Then we have the 552 which I have not heard. Looks nice, but the price is scary. I am sure it is all it is cracked up to be - it would have to be at that price! - but alas it is beyond my means, so I really shouldn't listen to it...
The real curio is the Tom Evans kit - reviewed with praise, seems to come from a similar direction as my current preamp but in a form that at least allows me to ditch a volume pot (if you have ever used a dual pot preamp you'll know where I'm coming from).
So, sonically, what I want to know is where it fits in, performance-wise, relative to the 552 and 252. It's not as pricy as even the outgiong 52, but reviews have been glowing. I have no idea who stocks them - probably nobody within a day's round-trip - and would like to hear but will have to rely on the experiences of others in the short-term.
Has anyone heard both? Comments?
John
TC '..'
"Girl, you thought he was a man, but he was a Muffin..."
TC,
I think you'll find the Vibe comparison very interesting.
My only comment is make sure, like with Naim, you heart a well-run in, warm sample.
They're a bit edgy from cold.
Also don't forget the convenience factors, remote control IS really nice to have, unless the pre is within arm's length
Andy.
I think you'll find the Vibe comparison very interesting.
My only comment is make sure, like with Naim, you heart a well-run in, warm sample.
They're a bit edgy from cold.
Also don't forget the convenience factors, remote control IS really nice to have, unless the pre is within arm's length
Andy.