2. amps-preamps
  3. 1087013226

Tube amplifier match for Totem Mani-2

I am seeking to change to a tubed amplifier; however, I am concerned that the Totem Mani-2's impedance curve will make amplifier matching particularly crucial for success. (My speakers are about 8 years old, and were upgraded to Signature status in 1997.)

I am hoping to benefit from someone who has experience with this, as I narrow the field of choices.

I was considering a VTL amplifier because they have generally good reputations for bass control for a tube amplifier, and there are several affordable higher powered models available used.

I am wonder ing if the Deluxe 140 Mono's would work well (807 tubes), or the deluxe 225 Mono's (EL34 tubes)?

Any insights or alternative suggestions would be most appreciated!
jbrrp1
tumbler
93 posts
 
I drive mine with a McIntosh MC-252 or a VT-100 MkII in rotation. Either does fine for my normal or higher than normal listening levels. either amp has variable speaker taps 4 or 8-ohm.
sutts
700 posts
 
Great question- here is your answer. I owned Mani-2's for years, and brought them to my buddies place to try them with his Audio Research M-300MKII's- amazing. Here is a lonk to a pair on the gon right now- http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstube&1091169140
robofet
14 posts
 
The VTL's ought to work well. I had Mani-2's which sounded great with solid state amplification. I tried some Cary SE 300's with the Mani-2's.....and the sound was fantastic. Small room, not real loud. The experience with the Cary's led me to find more efficient loudspeakers and get rid of the Mani's. Maybe I should have kept the Mani's....they were a great speaker.
tumbler
93 posts
 
I used my Cary 300BSEs on my Mani-2s and loved the sound. But in my case, I sold (am selling) the Carys, keeping the Mani-2s and now using a McIntosh MC-252 in rotation with my ARC VT-100 MkII. The sound with the Cary CAD-300SEs was magical. Regards..
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