Valvet with DAC for volume

Nice amp. I have the older Valvet mono blocks running Wilson Cubs. I'm using Audio Alchemy's last DAC (before being bought by Elac) as a preamp/DAC in that system. The only other thing hooked into that system (other than a sub) is a 65" TV so it's not a dedicated "audio" system per say. It does sound good though.  

Great amp.  I’d find a way to try an active pre before making a final decision. 

My friend uses the Valvet E3 with his Fleetwood Deville's.  Not sure which Pre-Amp he's using. He Loves the combo whatever it is. You can send him a message JOEINID.

Thanks, riaa. I just sent him a message. 

I'm trying to avoid an active pre or any pre at all. Ultimately the way my tastes are going, I think I may have to move to a highly efficient speaker. 

think I may have to move to a highly efficient speaker.

I’m not sure that’s the case depending on how loud you listen, room size, and the type of music you listen to. Valvet states their amps are quite capable of driving many speakers despite their low stated power output, so I’d definitely ask Valvet what they think. My guess is you may be surprised how well the E3 can drive your DeVores and that the combo will sound absolutely sublime, but that’s just a semi-educated guess FWIW.

You can also reach out to Albert at High End Electronics in California. He is the USA distributor/dealer for Valvet    highend-electronics.com

I did call Albert a couple of weeks ago. By the stats alone, he thought they might be borderline. That's what the professional reviews say also, but Devores are almost linear at 8ohm are noted for being easy to drive. Bridging two of them would probably sound great.