Rotel RC1082 Pre Amp Vs. Arcam FMJ C30 Pre Amp - Which One?

[admin_exported]

Hi

Just interested to know probable sound quality difference between 'Rotel RC1082 Pre Amp Vs. Arcam FMJ C30 Pre Amp'.

Recently Brought 'Rotel RC1082' from eBay however it has developed a fault during transit with one of the pre out's. Seller has agreed refund upon return. Thinking of getting hold of the Arcam FMJ C30 Instead.

Just like to know about people's experiences with the Arcam FMJ C30.

Would the FMJ C30 be an improvement.

Or whether i should stick with the Rotel RC1082 that i brought and just get the seller to get it repaired, if the FMJ C30 isnt all that.

Regards

James

 

[Dan Turner]

Can't say I have direct experience of either model, but I'd suggest that if you don't require more than 3 inputs you try a Creek passive pre-amp. I just picked up a Creek OBH-12 for £120 on ebay (new model OBH-22 c. £290), and the difference between that and the pre-amp built into my Arcam A32 is just stark. Not sure how it would compare to £1k worth of active pre-amp, but got to be worth a try if you only have 3 or less stereo sources (other models out there with more inputs, but the price-comparable ones don't seem to have remote control).

A passive pre amp is so simple that there is very little to degrade the signal (it's just a source selector and a volume control). When I started using it, it was (and I know this is a cliche) like someone had taken a duvet off my speakers!

The only thing you need to watch out for is to ensure that output levels of sources and input sensitivities of power amps are sufficient (i.e. because a passive pre-amp by definition only attenuates the output of the source down it can't amplify it up). Most mainstream kit would be fine I'm sure, but you could always check with manufacturers.

 

[Anonymous]

Thank you for the advice, i will consider this

 

[Frank Harvey]

As long as what you choose has the features you need, I think you're better off sticking with the Rotel, as it's what you're used to, whereas the Arcam will soften things somewhat.

 

[Anonymous]

Hello

Thank you for the reply!

I Think your right, im gonna keep the Rotel and have it fixed.

The Rotel Sound i think works better in the system. I previously used a Arcam A70 Integrated Amp as the Pre Amp, and that sounded to woolly with all the other warm components, it sounds much more alive and more exciting and dynamic now!

Guess im just gonna have to wait it out for the repair

My Quad 909 had to go away for a minor fault, due back soon, its great, its only taken about 7 weeks

Regards

James

 

[MUSICRAFT]

Hi c_m

A Rotel pre is the direction that i would take too however as you are buying used than (if it's not too late) i would suggest that you also try and find a Rotel's RHC10 passive pre amp or RHA10 active pre amp.

The RHC10 and RHA10 were part of Rotel's flagship Michi series that was available in the 90's. The RHC10 is the one to try and track down first because if it matches (as DT has outlined some of the technical aspects) your components than you'll hear your sources with superb resolution, silence and with power. The RHA10 is almost as good although a little noisy by comparison to the RHC10 however it is still better than Rotel's subsequent pre amps that i have used/heard.

Thanks

Rick @ Musicraft

 

[Anonymous]

Hi 'MUSICRAFT'

Thank you for the reccomendations.

I have already spent my pocketmoney as it where on the Rotel Pre Amp haha, its getting collected tomorrow for delivery back to rotel, for servicing

I will be sure to experiment though in the future with a Passive Pre Amp im interested to see the kind of sound that results

Regards

James