Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Creek 5350SE Integrated Amplifier (SS) by Belgarchi

Model:	5350SE
Category:	Integrated Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$1500
Description:	Integrated Amplifier
Manufacturer URL:	Creek

Review by Belgarchi on March 31, 2010 at 18:59:04
IP Address: 216.80.143.3 Add Your Review
for the 5350SE

I am using it in my video system, but tested it also in my main audio system.
Very elegeant integrated amp, thick front plate, slim line.
The R.C., though, is ugly and made of plastic.
Many features: a lot of input, 2 tape loops, MM Phono (very good), headphone out (excellent). A Balance control is m.i.a., though.
Inside, a nice toroidal transfo, and no less than 14 power caps of 2,200 microfarads each.
The preamp section is passive. A great idea: in an integrated amp, no cable between preamp and power amp.
The sound is exceptionally good. So good that I don't know what to tell you (it would be a collection of superlatives). Zero shortcomings.
One big problem, though: the input selector is defective (but I still can select the source with the R.C.). I sent it twice to get it fixed, by 2 different shops recommended by Creek. Each time, it was not working again after a few months.

Product Weakness:	Reliability of input selector; No Balance Control; Flimsy R.C.
Product Strengths:	Near-Perfect Sound, 2 Tape loops, preamp out - power amp in, excellent headphone output.

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: See review
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): None
Sources (CDP/Turntable): DVD Players Denon, Pioneer
Speakers: NHT Superone
Cables/Interconnects: M.C., Audioquest
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Various
Room Size (LxWxH): 30 x 20 x 15
Room Comments/Treatments: Neutral
Time Period/Length of Audition: 5 years
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): Monster Cable
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

Amplifier:	See review
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	DVD Players Denon, Pioneer
Speakers:	NHT Superone
Cables/Interconnects:	M.C., Audioquest
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Various
Room Size (LxWxH):	30 x 20 x 15
Room Comments/Treatments:	Neutral
Time Period/Length of Audition:	5 years
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Monster Cable
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner