Tannoy Westminster amp matching question.

Wow, 600 ohms input -- what were they thinking?? Sometimes it's hard to tell whether such a wacky spec is real, or a result of "lost in translation". Based on your experiences, sounds like this one is real.

Preamps that will handle 600 ohms are very rare. I have no experience with Atmasphere's products, but from all indications I've seen, they'd be an excellent choice. Another route (as you learned with your Lyr) is to look for headphone amps with preamp functionality. I'd look for something tubed that doesn't use electrolytic output caps -- which are the typical way that cheap tube headphone amps handle the low impedance loads. I used to have original Eddie Current Zana Deux; it served very nicely as a preamp and had an output impedance of only 16 ohms (no remote, though).

To be honest though, it doesn't make much sense to go down a route you wouldn't otherwise, just for amps that are WAY off the beaten path. The Atmasphere may be a good option because it'll serve as a top flight preamp whether you stick with these amps or not.

Thanks for your ideas gents.

Ralph, financially I like the sound of modifying the input to present a different impedence. Is this a "difficult" thing to achieve ?? I know that's a nasty question given the lack of info.

Would both the mp1 and the mp3 drive this load well ??

I do know a very experienced, local tube guy who repairs/designs amps for the domestic and professional music industry here in NZ. Perhaps I'll get them over on his bench and he can have a look see.

I didn't consider modifying the input as I expected that there was a good reason for 600ohm implementation. Its good news that you think this can be done.

I certainly didn't expect it to have this much impact. I never considered input and output impedance previously. Its opened a whole new area for me :-).

I'm very grateful for your help, as always.

I'm in a similiar situation as Borg7x9. I have a brand new pair of Tannoy Westminster Royal SE sitting in the other room 'ampless'. I've recently sold (April) my SS amp and not yet replaced it. So, I have a short list: Wavac MD-805m, Audio Note Conquest Silver Signature (low gain), Viva Aurora T (845), LAMM 2.1 and Almarro A340. I am concerned with the power variance between these amplifiers (i.e., 18-55 watts) and my inability to actually hear these combinations. I'm running out of patience with myself leaning one way today, and another tomorrow. It's time to make an informed decision ... with your help.

Hi Wylmars. Of the amps you mention above I'd love to hear the Viva's . Listening to my 845 based amps
(http://www.psvane.com/?Jkg/t845/) .The pictures don't do them justice. I think that when I've nailed the pre-amp issue They'll be fantastic. You could also consider the KR Kronzilla series of amps. I very much empathise with your predicament. Its very frustrating worrying about making the best decision you can. It can easily spoil the experience. If I were to say one thing from my recent experience, I'd say that you need more control for the bass than my 8 watt per channel 300b amp gave me. To get that "high efficency" freedom feeling I seem to need more power. Good luck. I'd been keen to hear your findings as well.

Just one last thing, Jeff Day remarked that the Tannoys are very forgiving of amplifiers and you can get great performance with a wide range. I think he's probably right.