Functional. Stylish. Musical.
Written: Jul 08 '00
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Pros: Superb styling, ergonomics and performance.
Cons: Power cord plugs in the bottom making it difficult to use after-market power cords.
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| ourguru's Full Review: Madrigal Audio No. 380 Preamplifier |
Warning! Read this review with caution. You are reading about a product that was designed for more than mere mortals. If you have never had the pleasure of owning a Levinson product and you have the financial capacity, I can recommend nothing higher.
The operations alone make this product worth every penny. Not only does this piece operate any other Madrigal Audio product connected to it, it does so with maximum precision and grace. Where an audiophile grade preamplifier historically has been less then ergonomic, I assure you this product was designed for the perfectionist in all of us.
All operations can either be controlled by the beautiful full function faceplate, or the rediculously overbuilt billet aluminum remote control. This remote control is so substantial it could double as a 20 oz framers hammer. The remote control duplicates all faceplate functions and even has built in rubber bumpers to avoid marring your expensive furniture.
But hey! Enough about the looks, lets talk about sound.
Performance wise this product sounds even better then it looks. Building on classic Mark Levinson authuority and dynamics, they have dramatically improved the speed, precision and focus of imaging. If you are familiar with the 38S this product is superior for 40% less money. If you are not familiar with the 38S don't worry, this is identical in tonality and voicing, but better in every other way.
For price versus performance however this is definitely not a top value product. Levinson has always been about 25% over priced in my opinion, but how can you argue with a product this good! My opinion is to look for one used for a 40% to 50% savings, but don't be too picky. The brushed aluminum finish scratches easily and collects dust. The product only looks brand new for a couple of days, and never will again. Just use it and love it. For cleaning I have found windex and a cotton rag wiping with the grain of the metal yeilds the best results.
Good luck and happy listening.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 3500
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Epinions.com ID:
ourguru
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Location: Somewhere in Northern California
Reviews written: 5
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