2. amps-preamps
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AVA Vision Set 400 v Belles SA-100

What amp would you recommend of these two, AVA Vision Set 400 or the Belles SA-100 amp, to be used with either a Don Sachs pre amp or a Supratek Cabernet pre, my speakers are Graham Audio LS 5/9.

Would very much appreciate your input on the two amps, especially how they fair with tube pre amps.
What is the sound difference between them and is there a quality difference?
I know that the Belles is much more expensive, but I can maybe make a deal on a demo unit, that puts it into the same price bracket as a new Set 400.

I don’t like clinical sound, or thin upper mid/treble, I prefer rich and organic sound with clarity, but never harsh,
also it is very important for me to be able to listen for many hours without any fatigue.

Hope to hear from some members that have or have heard either amp.
Thanks.
gryphongryph
gryphongryph OP
374 posts
 
Thanks for your input, I live in remote islands, so not easy to try before buy, what other amps would you compare the Set400 too ?
tonyptony
617 posts
 
IME the closest I've heard would be the Pass X series, specifically the Pass X250.5. Different systems but speakers from the same manufacturer, so it isn't a side by side comparison. Tough call as to which amp was "better". SET? Maybe a bit faster, more dynamic, very linear, very good articulation across the range, a nice sound. Pass? Maybe a bit smoother, a bit more articulate in the low end, a slightly sweeter high end, fleshier midrange, again a nice sound. I could live with either one.
dadork
632 posts
 

I'm about to jump on a used SA-100. What did you end up getting?

gryphongryph OP
374 posts
 

I ended up getting the Belles SA30 class A power amp, great sound, only problem is a bit of a gain mismatch with my Supratek Cabernet pre, it sounds great, only my volume control is a bit hampered by both being high gain amps, so still interested in the Set 400 as Frank can match the gain to my pre on request. Am waiting a bit as Frank and the guys are refreshing their lineup, interesting what will be coming down the line.

jackd
1,068 posts
 

Turn the gain down on the Cabernet to about 11 o'clock and you won't have any issues with volume.  I am running the .60 volt Nuforce STA-200 at 10 o'clock with no issues.  That's why the gain adjustment is there.

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