[philip1105]

Hi..

I have a Quad CDP2 with a 99 pre-amp and 909 amp currently being used with the amp-bus connectors.
Would I get a better sound if I dispensed with the pre-amp? does it do anything apart from allow various inputs?!
Also should I connect my CDP2 to the 909 via fixed or the variable output connections?

Thanks!!

[Mark.Yudkin]

If you disconnect the 99 pre you must use the CDP2's variable outputs, as the CDP2 controls the volume. If you use the 99 Pre, you use the fixed oututs and the 99 Pre controls the volume.

Using a 99 Pre adds its functionality to the chain, omitting it shortens the path. Here's Quad's description of the functionality:

The combination of universal phono-socket connectors and Quad Link inputs gives the ability to connect an almost unlimited number of sources, each with optimal matching. All inputs, including those for moving-coil and moving-magnet cartridges, have adjustable sensitivity. This flexibility also extends to the wide range of precise tone control adjustments that can be made. In addition to the usual high-frequency filter, there are adjustments for the bass response, and the unique Quad ‘Tilt’ control which skews the entire frequency response to give a preferred tonal balance.

If you're using ESL 2805's / 2905's, it's possible you might hear a difference. I suggest you try out both options to see whether the functional loss yields a compensating audio improvement.

[indus]

Originally Posted by philip1105

Hi..

I have a Quad CDP2 with a 99 pre-amp and 909 amp currently being used with the amp-bus connectors.
Would I get a better sound if I dispensed with the pre-amp? does it do anything apart from allow various inputs?!
Also should I connect my CDP2 to the 909 via fixed or the variable output connections?

Thanks!!

I have the cdp2 and 909 and have often thought about getting the pre. A few people have told me that they prefer the sound without the pre, which as Mark mentions may well be due to the shorter signal path. The tilt function also seems to be a matter of personal taste.

The pre allows analogue inputs ie phono.

I'd be interested in what you think of the sound quality difference.

[philip1105]

Not tried without pre yet as im still trying to figure out if I can connect my Samsung LCD TV to the CDP as it appears to have only analogue outputs!
Also if you use the CDP as a preamp for other inputs like maybe an ipod, how do you change from one source to another?...can see why I have a 99 pre now!

[indus]

Originally Posted by philip1105

Not tried without pre yet as im still trying to figure out if I can connect my Samsung LCD TV to the CDP as it appears to have only analogue outputs!
Also if you use the CDP as a preamp for other inputs like maybe an ipod, how do you change from one source to another?...can see why I have a 99 pre now!

Using ipod etc is no problem with the cdp2. It has 6 digital inputs, and you can plug any digital source into these and then pick that digital input on the cd remote.

I have my sonos plugged into the cdp2 like that.