Hello,
I am Dennis from Vancouver area, Canada.
C-1 vs C-11 vs C-4000 — Looking for guidance
I first got into Carver gear around 1988. My original system was two M-1.0t amplifiers, a CT-7 preamp, and Cerwin Vega D-9 speakers. Unfortunately all of that was stolen.
Years later I started over. My current system consists of three M-1.0t amplifiers, a CT-17 preamp, Mirage M1 speakers, a Denon CD player, a tape deck, and associated gear. Over the years I have had my share of failures, mostly self-inflicted, but overall the system has worked well. The CT-17 currently has a display light out but still functions. The system has not been used for a few years due to some amplifier issues and a couple of moves, but I am hoping to have everything set up again by the end of this year. Two of my M-1.0t amplifiers are currently at Nelion being refurbished and upgraded.
That brings me to my preamp questions.
Even though my CT-17 still works, I am interested in finding a C-1 or C-11. I know there are some internal differences, but from what I understand they are basically the same design. Is there enough difference between the C-1 and C-11 to make one clearly better than the other?
Second, how do the C-1 and C-11 compare to the C-4000? I like the simplicity of the C-1 and C-11 layout, but the C-4000 seems to be more common on the used market. I would appreciate any feedback on sound quality, usability, and long-term ownership.
I have also found a local C-11 for about 250 dollars, although the faceplate and cosmetics are not in great shape compared to my other gear. I would plan to have it refurbished and upgraded anyway. Is it still a good candidate at that price, or should I wait for a better one?
Thanks in advance. I am looking forward to getting this system back up and running.
Have a great day,
Dennis