2. amps-preamps
  3. 163550-120167

Can the top end of a PrimaLuna Evo integrated be tamed w/tube rolling?

This weekend I have a PrimaLuna Evo 3 as a house guest to compare with my Supernait 3 solid state integrated. Both are about the same price, basically tube vs solid state. I am a big fan of the Naim PRaT but I also find the depth and transparency of tubes very engaging. The Evo integrated on its own lacks the rhythm and pace of the Naim but it does have transparency and imaging in spades.

So the idea is maybe run an Evo 3 preamp instead along with a Naim 250 (or just use the amp section of the Supernait).

But one problem I cannot get over is that there is a very fatiguing high end to the Evo 3. Cymbals, snare drums, top edge of distorted guitars, etc are pretty harsh at any volume higher than background music. To compare, my vintage Luxman valve preamp into the SN3 does not have this quality (but it lacks the refinement of the PrimaLuna).

It would be ideal to do some tube rolling to get the best of all worlds... is there a tube selection that could work with the Evo preamp that would tame the harsher high end and smooth out the sound a little bit on top? Or is this just a part of the PrimaLuna signature?
128x128jsqt
erik_squires
16,353 posts
 
Hi OP,
If it's using Solen's then absolutely.  Rather than listen to me though, see if you can find the thread of the A'goner who went through several iterations. 


Best,
Erik
jsqt's avatar
jsqt OP
117 posts
 
@tvad yes and void the warranty too I would imagine.
erik_squires
16,353 posts
 
Here, I found the thread.  I suggest you talk to the OP there directly.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/v-cap-cutf-22-on-gain-tubes-primaluna-dialogue-hp-integrated/...
jsqt's avatar
jsqt OP
117 posts
 
@erik_squires thanks I will do a search and see what I come up with. It would be an interesting read.
ps
763 posts
 
@jsqt. All I can relate is my experience and it’s all relative. But I will say that the EVO 300 is likely going to be a keeper for me. And I’ll likely sell my excellent, highly-regarded vintage tube separates. I wish you success and am happy to have helped. One last comment. The Guarnieri Homage are revealing speakers with a more neutral presentation than other Sonus Faber speakers I’ve owned. In some ways, they’re rather close to planars, in that they truly disappear and present a sound stage that is simply"there" and not coming out of boxes.

As far as "changing caps" is concerned, IMO a recipe for madness in every way imaginable.  The folks who designed and chose the components and assembled the PL gear know what they are doing.
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