Which preamplifier: Kenwood C2 or Nikko Beta 50/2

[HIFICrazy]

Hi
I am now using a set of Harman Kardon preamplifier and amplifier (Citation 11 and 12) with the Dahlquist DQM-9 speakers, but I do not like the sound which I found too dull. Not enough dynamic and missing
I have tried a Kenwood KC206 low end preamp and the sound is much better (for me) but I know it is not a preamp that I can't considering to be HI-Fi.
I now have the choice to buy two preamps. A Kenwood C2 preamp and a Nikko Beta 50/2. Which of the two do you consider will best fit my taste and system.
If you think of an another preamp, I am open to any raisonnable proposition.

P.S. My Citation has never been recaped. Do the recaping will improved the sound enough for me not to replace the HK.
Thank for your help.

[wineslob]

I dont know about the Nikko unit, but the C2, while not considered an "audiophile" unit, was good for the money, back in the day.

[daddydlb]

I had the Nikko Beta 30 and got rid of it. The pre in my 9090DB is much better sounding. Never heard the Kenwood but I would go with it.

[cableguy]

The C-2 is a pretty preamp and has a decent phono stage as well.




Bill

[Glen B]

Back in the '80s I owned both a Nikko Beta 30 and Kenwood C2, mated at that time with the Nikko Alpha 450. I found the Kenwood to be the better sounding unit.