Mixed Brand Pre-Amp Power Amp Pairings that Work
I am thinking of and starting from scratch and revamping my pre-amp to power amp chain. I know that the performance of these two elements will be tightly coupled, so they need to match.
I suppose the easiest thing for me to do would likely be to stick with one brand (potentially even an integrated) and assume that they have optimally paired their own components to work well together. But even if I ended up getting pre- and power from one brand, I would want to do some thinking about the best pairing.
I would love to hear from folks here with more experience than me with off brand pairings. What worked? What didn't? All thoughts are much appreciated
I agree with @soix -- you just have to listen. That said, when I have paired pre and power amps a couple of times, (once Bryston, once Classé), the result was excellent. Currently using an Anthem STR Preamp with Apollon monoblocks built around the PuriFi 1ET400A module. I like it as much as any pairing I’ve tried. Quiet, dynamic, and neutral. |
I've done a lot of mixing between phono / preamp / power components of the brands Rogue / ARC / VAC. Assuming you've eliminated egregious electrical mismatches, the sonic pairings can work out great or be mediocre. It's incredibly system dependent - you just have to be able to try it home or be willing to buy / try / sell. Or be like me and just keep it all so you can explore various matches over time lol. The sonic match between pre and power is particularly important - and can be very finicky! The choice of power tubes KT88 vs. KT120 in my VAC 200iQ monos can make or break preamp matches. I'd previously found the full VAC stack to be sluggish for fast paced rock, but that turned out to be a couple of tube rolling choices I made over the years. Going back to more of the stock VAC tubes, except for a V1 rolling to NOS 6SN7, resolved that issue. Of course you can mix cartridge and SUT pairings into the mess too lol. At least my speakers & room have been consistent! |
Pretty much all of top level hobbyists choose the best pre-amp and choose an amp from different manufacturers. That is what I see on most systems, swapping gear is a constant process and being bound by just one manufacturer is very limiting. I've only had one matched system in 60 years and it didn't last long. |
