Comparing sound of Tenor 150 HPs vs. Lamm M1.2


After reviewing the archives, I could not find any specifics on the similarities and differences in the sonics of the Tenor 150 HPs hybrid amp vs. the Lamm M1.2 amp. I would be looking at using these with Kharma ceramique speakers. It seems that some favor one amp, while others favor the other. While I have extensively heard the Tenor, I have not had the ability to listen to the Lamm (and may not get the chance before I must make a decision). My question primarily relates to how the two compare with respect the midrange characteristics. Thanks.
thom_y
Guys,

It's interesting to see this thread come back to life. There is no question, I would love to have the opportunity to hear both amps side by side with whatever Kharma speakers I may finally decide on. Even better, I would love to audition them both in my own room (once it is finished). Having auditioned equipment for sometime now, I realize how important synergy can be between the amp, speakers, and my source. I was amazed how different three SOTA amps could sound using the same pair of Kharma and emm labs gear. So, I agree now matter how great a review or unbiased opinion is, it will never equal listening for yourself with your own associated equipment in your own room. However, the reality is that it is not possible to listen to both amps with the Kharma speakers(either in Canada where I live, or even in the US) at any one dealer (as Cello would suggest). While I know certain dealers will offer the potential of a trial of the Lamm, it is still a hassle to ship the amp to Canada, and deal with customs for auditioning, never mind trying to arrange getting both to listen to. (I imagine you would have to pay taxes, duties, brokerage fees as if you were buying it to bring it across the border) And it still means committing to the other components in order to do your home auditioning (i.e. speakers and source). At this point, further trips for auditioning are really out of the question as well. (Cello, I am not sure where you were suggesting driving for 4 to 6 hours, but I am not aware of any US dealer that carries all 3 lines).

Nothwithstanding everything Brian say's which I understand (and would agree with), all I was hoping for someone to tell me their own experience in comparing the sonics of the Tenor hybrids vs. the Lamm M1.2 hybrid. I am more than familiar with the sound of the Tenor in combination with the Kharma, and yet, I am curious as to similarities and differences between the Lamm and Tenor. Given that the design is quite different between these two amps, I suspect that there may be large differences in how they sound. For example, the big differences in the number of tubes that each uses makes me wonder how these two differ (esp with respect to the mid and upper range). I am not that naive to realize that there may be undisclosed biases and conflicts of interest in any response. Interestingly, I have been told that Kharma uses 1) Tenor vs. 2) Lamm amps in voicing their speakers. Anyways, I am still curious to see if anyone is willing to answer my original question.
Finally, I realize that my approach is not ideal, that I may have made a differet decision if I had the opportunity to do a direct A/B comparison, but given the quality of both I am not sure I can make that big a mistake with either !
Thom y; as a well-known Tenor proponent (who also likes and has recommended Lamm) here's my 2 cents.

forgetting about which sounds 'best'.....the Lamm is likely going to have less chance of any future hassels. only one tube....compared to 5 with the Tenor....the Lamm is more like a solid state amp with a 'slight touch' of tubes. the Tenor is more like an OTL tube amp with a touch of solid state.

i prefer passive volume attenuation.....my opinion is that the Tenor has a little more 'life' and passive works better with Tenors.

logistically and aesthetically......do you want monoblocks? two power cords, two amp stands......a different look.

just a few things to think about.

good luck.....and keep us posted with your construction pics.
Mike,

Thanks for speaking up.

I realize there is no best.

From my research so far, and reading between the lines on some Lamm reviews, I was afraid that it's one tube may not give me what I love in the Tenor (both hybrid and OTL). I have really found both of those amps outstanding in combo with the Kharma (ranging from the basic Ceramique model up to the Midi Exquisite) and with my type of music. (whether it be Radiohead, Lucinda Williams, Ryan Adams, U2, Modest Mouse, Beck, Coldplay, Beethoven or Mahler)

As I wait for my room to be finished, I continue to flip through the pictures of your room to inspire me, esp. with the blue lights glowing on your Tenors. Absolutely, your room is the best room (equipment wise and design wise) that I have ever seen. If I find myself in the Pacific Northwest, I may well call you up for a listen to that Doors album. Would also love to put on Lucinda Williams (World Without Tears) on your Rockport.
Brian. We sure could use more dealers like you here locally. Over where I live, there is only one dealer that allows me to take equipment home to try out on my system and they usually look and question me critically whenever I return something. I feel like I have to make up an excuse.

Back to the original question, I've done a lot of the same research as well. In my experience, those who prefer the Lamm usually do so using the ML2s/.1s as comparison. This could very well be a tube vs solid state thing of course. Don't know if it matters but one is a monoblock.
Thom,

thanks.

Lucinda and Jim (Morrison) will be waiting.....

three audiophiles just left my room after a 4 hour listening session......we did the old digital-analog comparison.

they had all been marveling about how great the digital was.....they had brought some of their own cd's. then we played some Lps.

after 2 Lps, two of the guys asked me "how could anyone even think that digital has a chance against vinyl? the comparison is laughable".

yes, it is.