• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

cambridge audio 551p v. 651p

lawnerd

lawnerd

Active Member
I am interested in getting one of these phono preamps (CA 551p or 651p). My question is this.

If I only run MM cartridges, is there any reason I should get the 651p?

My understanding is that the only difference between them is that the 651p can handle MC cartridges. Is that true? Or is there an additional advantage to using MM with the 651p?
 
Register to hide this ad
lawnerd said:
My understanding is that the only difference between them is that the 651p can handle MC cartridges. Is that true? Or is there an additional advantage to using MM with the 651p?
Click to expand...
No. The 651 has a different topology than the 551 and actually performs better by all reports.

The 651 has passive RIAA equalization which is better than the active eq of the 551.

I'm pretty sure you can find specs to compare the two. But they are not similar in build or performance. Go for the 651p.
 
I just stripped down a 651P and it's the same circuit as the 640P except they added an on/off switch.

The 551P would be the same as the 540P and a much more basic design.

If you want to save some money try and pick up a used 640P you have the option of modding it later on and taking it to a whole new level.
 
I've been told by a 651P owner that the only difference between the 640P and the 651P is the on/off switch. Whether it's true I don't know, but it may be worth investigating if you could save a few bucks on the older version. Then have it modded by Hypnotoad to take it to the next level!

EDIT...err, what 'toad said!
 
So I screwed up and accidentally ordered the 551p when I was going to get the 651p later. I've done this before. I look at an item on Amazon and accidentally put it in my cart without realizing it. Then, days later, I'll order something else, like Amy Winehouse's first LP "Frank", not realizing that the other item was in the cart. Doh!

Anyway. The 551p is a vast improvement over the very cheap Pyle pre-amp I had before which made my records sound flat with little or no range. The new pre-amp brings out a much livelier sound.
 
I was looking at this and I downloaded the PDF manual for it from Cambridge Audio but it doesn't say what the round control on the top of the unit is for (you can tell I'm a noob :D). It has a finger indentation for turning but what's it for?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom