Which Mono block amps for ML Summit Speakers?

Electrostaticman: When it comes to purchasing an amplifier, it has everything to do with the speaker being driven. The amp/speaker link requires careful match much like the tonearm/cartridge.

Do a search for threads that cover the topic of amplifiers that work well with ML speakers. There seems to be a lot of owners that have had great success with tube and ss amps. Maybe they can give you some ideas on pros/cons, why they changed from one to the other, etc.

As for tube preamps, I have yet to hear a music system with a ss preamp match the 3-dimensionality, decay of notes, and harmonic richness like many of the great tube preamps. Of course, just because a preamp or line stage has tubes does not mean anything either. But I find this link in the chain to be crucial to convey the above qualities. I can be content with changing amps, speakers, cables, etc., but take such a preamp out of the system, and so much is immediately lost. It just makes no sense but time and time again, for me at least, the line stage is THE critical link. And the most critical cable link has been from the line stage to the amp so don't short change yourself here either.

John

John, what preamp do you recommend?

Electrostaticman: Send me an email as to your current system, what sonic qualities you want that you currently don't have, and a preamp budget. I will respond with some models for you to keep your eyes out to audition. John

I must second the Blue Circle suggestion. They match beautifully with the Summits. I have the 206 paired with them and its amazing. I have also heard the 204 with the summits and its fantastic as well. I have no doubt that the 202 would be outstanding within the desired budget.

S.

Electrostaticman: how are things going? I myself have had Summits for few months. I've tried various SS and tube amps, but I've found that speaker placement seems to have quite an effect, especially on the bass. My advice would be to hold off on amp purchases until you've had the speakers for a while and you find a good placement. I have had particular challenge with getting uniform bass throughout the room. If you don't get the bass right, it totally throws off the tonal balance. I've never had speakers that sound so different in different places in the room. Until you get the placement right you may not be be really hearing the electronics.

I have found that power makes a difference in the bass, even though it is powered internally; puzzling, but that's what I have heard. I have not been happy with 100wpc. 500wpc SS amps was enough. Right now I'm using two tube amps in mono mode, 200wpc, seems to be working OK. I like the tube sound better, but boy do these suckers get hot! Might not be suitable for putting in an enclosure.