rf 35's paired w/ DARED VP-20 what next?

[chris kaye]

I recently purchased a pair of RF 35's that I have paired with a DARED vp-20 18 watt monoblock tube amp. I'm simply running a CD player directly into the integrated amp. I must admit I'm somewhat of a novice when it comes to all tube set ups and I was hoping I could get some much needed advice:

A. Should I add a preamp, will it really improve sound quality?

B. My bass seems a little thin, should I add some type of EQ, or will

that just dirty the signal I have going now.

I appreciate any advice anyone may have. Thanks.

[Marvel]

Chris,

They use the term 'integrated' rather loosely. Since it has volume controls, you can go with what you've got. This way you eliminate another set of electronics from the signal path. If you would want to add other sources (DVD player audio, cassette deck, mini disk, iPod), you would need either a switch box to pick your source, or a preamp/linestage, that would have control over the various inputs, and usually give you a single volume control and perhaps a balance control. Some of the preamps will also add tone controls, covering bass boost and cut and treble boost and cut. Might even have a mid control but that wouldn't be as common.

It's up to you and your wallet. You are going the more purist approach.

...and welcome to the forum. Most of us are nuts here. Be prepared.

[tofu]

if you're looking for an eq, i have a 'rane mq302 mojo 30 band equalizer' that my uncle gave to me (he's a DJ) yesterday. i don't really need it, and it's in great condition aside from wear around the screw holes from rack mounting.

i have it up in audiogon if you're interested http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?misceqal&1109121386