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Need amp suggestions for Hedlund Horns....

A few months ago, I heard a Cary 300b amp hooked up to some small monitors and was blown away... so the itch to upgrade started.

I just bought used a pair of Hedlund horns... came with it (free) was a diy homemade tube amp that does not sound adequate (based on what I heard these horns can do).

I’m in the market for a used amp that would be the ideal match for these Hedlunds. From what I read, I have several options such as 300b, 2A3, etc. but what would you recommend?  I've never had a low-power SET amp before.  

My room is 25’x 30’ with vaulted ceilings (large enough), wood floors, fairly open. I listen to everything from classic jazz, horns, classical, vocals, and the occasional rock. I would love to have some volume to feel the energy and texture of the song.


128x128ramoneo14
jond's avatar
jond
5,790 posts
 
@ramoneo14 awesome news congrats on the new amp! And what a great deal at that price I would've bought it and I love my amp! Let us know how it sounds when it gets there. I don't know a ton about passives but this looks like a pretty good unit.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-luminous-audio-axiom-2-passive-preamplifier-walker-mod...

But of course see how your VTL works first, the most affordable gear is what  you already own! Happy listening!

bradf's avatar
bradf
329 posts
 
Since your considering a passive pre-amp, you may find the following link on the Lightspeed Attenuator interesting and a preamp to consider.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/lightspeed-attenuator-best-preamp-ever
rvnye
21 posts
 
Are the speakers in your profile picture hedlund horns??  Hedlund horns are massive (close to 7 feet tall).  Anyway, do you live in southern CA?  I would love to match my amplifier with your speakers.  I have a Woo Audio WA-5.  It's a 300B SET with Takatsuki 300B tubes.  It cost a lot, but I'm really impressed with the build quality and sound so far.  I have my eyes on a set of Medallion IIs with Lowther drivers.  You really have a nice set of speakers. 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Rvnye,
I've haven't heard the Woo Audio 300b SET but it has a very good reputation for sound quality. I used a Takatsuki pair in my amplifier for 3 years and know their excellence. I'm confident that your Woo would be a wonderful match with the Hedlund speakers. 
Charles, 
ramoneo14's avatar
ramoneo14 OP
17 posts
 
I'm in Minneapolis MN sorry otherwise I would.  You up for the drive? :)

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