2. amps-preamps
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Confused...not satisfy with my system :

Hi all,

I have Sonus Faber EXTREMA ,
AMP:Meridian 557 .
PRE:Meridian 502.

I sold my CD ARCAM A9 - I loved this CD with my previous system ( Was ARCAM ALPHA8R with SF Concerto) ,The sound was warm and detailed.

Right now the sound is realistic and deep but not exciting... The mid is great The bass is OK but not kicking.
I think the speakers should stay but not sure for the AMP and the PRE .

I thought to change to Tube or hybrid , I tried the Unison Research - Unico Secondo.
The sound was kinda better but the MID is away too high and a bit annoying so it's not that better alternative.
Some suggesting to add another 557 cause the EXTREMA are really hard ...but I don't feel the AMP is not pushing them well.Maybe not pushing them right ( matter of taste of course).

I have a chance to buy Tube AMP Conrad-Johnson MV60 instead of the 557 (the 502 will stay).

or I should i look for other PRE?

Really confusing situation cause I can't really point on the weak chain .

please advice
avico
jond's avatar
jond
5,794 posts
 
Avico,
I didn't want to mention this and confuse things further but I am one of those "Pre people", that is in my opinion nothing influences a stereo's sound like a preamp. I can still remember my first tubed preamp years ago, an Air Tight ATC-1, it was a revelation, the sound just opened up, becoming warmer and more detailed at the same time. I've since moved on but I will always used a tubed preamp. Perhaps you can borrow one from a friend/dealer to try in your system? You may be amazed and find the rest of your gear is suddenly satisfying.
goldeneraguy
442 posts
 
I agree with Jond.I feel a preamp is a "must" and it should always be "tubed"
avico OP
18 posts
 
Jond/Goldeneraguy

I always start to think in this way - Can you please recommened for Tube preamp (with the 557?or u think i might consider something else?)
I like really warm sound and yet detailed and deep.
goldeneraguy
442 posts
 
Avico , I hope you didnt read my post as a suggestion for you to get a new preamp.My preference happens to be for tubed preamps.Your last post indicates that you may prefer tubes as well.I will say that matching a tubed pre to a SS amp is not as simple as it may seem.Also the sound that you dislike from your amp may lessen but will always be heard.
If you do want a change and are buying NEW then visit your dealer(s)and try to have a home demo.If this cant be arranged then read everything you can from the credible posters here and try to find a dealer that has a product that interests you on display.
Only you can decide what is best for you.
Best of luck
jond's avatar
jond
5,794 posts
 
Avico,
For a warm sound I suggest conrad-johnson, Cary, or the aforementioned Air Tight though they are harder to find. I would also recommend the brand I currently use, Deja Vu Audio a small custom builder, but their stuff is nearly impossible to find. Plenty of good choices though, what's your budget?
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