I'm more of a Linn fan since their products are so reasonable on the used market. The Naim prices chased me out of being a continued customer and I didn't reall care for the cabling issues associated with them. But, I don't really see why there is such criticism offered up in this thread. Sure, there are other manufacturers worthy of consideration. I've no problem with that at all. What I would urge you to do if possible is borrow a tube preamp and insert it into your existing mix. The results will astound you. I cannot comment with experience with Naim and what I propose but with the Linn gear the benefits by doing so will show you just how well designed their amps are. I continually get comments from club members about how wonderful my system sounds and for about 20% of the cost of theirs. And this is from members who routinely criticize each others systems fairly harshly.
Linn/Naim user seeks advice on tube pre/ss amp
All--
I've been a Linn/Naim user forever--OK, since 1983. I've always loved how the various permutations of the gear I've owned has played music, and sounded.
However, I am interested in experimenting with a tube preamp and perhaps a solid state amp, based on a terrific demonstration of a CJ PV-9 driving (I think) a Krell KSA-80. I recall folks saying a tube pre matched with a SS amp can do wonders, and I'd like to try.
My initial thought is to find a CJ PV-9, based on my experience of it years ago--it simply sounded fantastic. What would a good match be as far as power amps went? Budget is probably a maximum of $2,000.00.
Thoughts welcomed. Oh--sources are either a Meridian 506.20 or Naim CDS-1, or a Linn LP12/Lingo2/Basik Plus (I know, I know.....) and an AT 440ML. Speakers currently are Linn Kabers, which can be power hogs.
TIA,
Bob
I've been a Linn/Naim user forever--OK, since 1983. I've always loved how the various permutations of the gear I've owned has played music, and sounded.
However, I am interested in experimenting with a tube preamp and perhaps a solid state amp, based on a terrific demonstration of a CJ PV-9 driving (I think) a Krell KSA-80. I recall folks saying a tube pre matched with a SS amp can do wonders, and I'd like to try.
My initial thought is to find a CJ PV-9, based on my experience of it years ago--it simply sounded fantastic. What would a good match be as far as power amps went? Budget is probably a maximum of $2,000.00.
Thoughts welcomed. Oh--sources are either a Meridian 506.20 or Naim CDS-1, or a Linn LP12/Lingo2/Basik Plus (I know, I know.....) and an AT 440ML. Speakers currently are Linn Kabers, which can be power hogs.
TIA,
Bob
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- 11 posts total
- 11 posts total