Cambridge Azur 851e! Alternative Preamplifier with XLR Pre Outs

[ja_kub_sz]

For starters... Anyone have a Cambridge Audio Azur 851e laying around.

If not... wondering what other preamplifiers with XLR Pre Outs and at least two XLR Inputs would be comparable to the Azur 851e?

Saw a used McIntosh C47 for $2,500 (but a litte expensive).

I like using external DAC's also when possible, so something I can bypass the internal DAC if having one.

I've really been trying to track one down for the whole Mono Block Bi Amp Bridging with the Azur 851w's I have.

 

[Al ears]

This forum does not have a classified section please look elsewhere
what have you been using as a preamplifier up until now?
why does it have t o have for inputs?

 

[ja_kub_sz]

Azur 851a as of right now, but just want all balanced connections as opposed to RCA pre outs.

Stand alone DAC'less preamps with XLR connection are slim pickings (at a $2,000 USD or less price point).

 

[Al ears]

In my opinion the use of XLR connections in a hifi system are not much of an improvement over RCA

 

[ja_kub_sz]

Gotcha, I know a lot of higher end products have done away with them.

Maybe all in my head (the perceived difference in sound).

 

[Al ears]

Gotcha, I know a lot of higher end products have done away with them.

Maybe all in my head (the perceived difference in sound).

I'm not saying don't bother, it's just my opinion after trying in the past. Hope you can find the preamp but I would imagine that anyone who bought them are likely to hang on to them.

 

[ja_kub_sz]

Now that I'm in 100% agreement with 😉