2. amps-preamps
  3. 1408839785

What's the greatest bargain in SET these days?

Hi, Gang,
I response to my recent review of the Reference 3A De Capo BE speaker, someone wrote that if you really want to hear them sing, you should try them with a SET amp, or words to that effect.
That got me thinking. The De Capo's are 92 db efficient, which (correct me if I'm wrong) seems kind of borderline for low-power SET amps.
In any event, right now I'm running mine with a pair of Manley Mahi mono-blocks. They are switchable from triode (20 watts) to "ultra linear" (40 watts). I run them in triode all the time, and in my room, the volume knob almost never goes past 9 o'clock; more would just be too loud.
All that said, what do you guys think of running the De Capo's with a SET amp? And if I did, what's the best bargain in SET's these days?
Thanks!
rebbi
jwm
918 posts
 
Brownsfan how about the Detroit symphony and hearing two great set systems.
goldeneraguy
442 posts
 
Brownsfan, Thank you for your well wishes.
I have plans for house hunting next month.
If I can take the heat and find a room for my System (emphasis on system} then I may be the only one wearing blue in a sea of red at football games.
Again all the best
Ed
pavpet
121 posts
 
Wyetech onyx 13 watts , tons of balls
rebbi OP
1,326 posts
 
Pavpet: Had a look. Thanks for the tip, I've never heard of Wyetech before. Problem is, those little mono-blocks are over my budget.
mrmb's avatar
mrmb
299 posts
 
I really appreciated the discourse contained in this thread, especially the comments of Brownsfan and Chares1dad!

The title caught my attention because of my son's Klipsch Heresy system and our discussions about his need to try SET's vs using my old Aragon 4004 ss amp.

I on the other hand, am in need of some hefty power to drive my Soundlab M1PX speakers. Although my needs are at the opposite end of the SET power spectrum, my amplifier sojourn definitely concurs with the comments about power being an unreliable predictor of the end sonic outcome. In all sonic areas, a rather highly regarded 350 watt/ch SS amp that I owned, was trounced by 100 watt Class A triode monoblocks, especially in the area of bass and control. So, while power is a point of reference, it (as are a lot of other stats. or specs.) is oftentimes not a very reliable or particularly helpful one.

Being from Indiana, but finding the Blue Ridge Parkway decades ago, we too became smitten with that part of our country, but unfortunately remain residing in IN. So, Brownsfan, congrats on your relocation.....enjoy!!
More to discover