2. amps-preamps
  3. 1408839785

What's the greatest bargain in SET these days?

Hi, Gang,
I response to my recent review of the Reference 3A De Capo BE speaker, someone wrote that if you really want to hear them sing, you should try them with a SET amp, or words to that effect.
That got me thinking. The De Capo's are 92 db efficient, which (correct me if I'm wrong) seems kind of borderline for low-power SET amps.
In any event, right now I'm running mine with a pair of Manley Mahi mono-blocks. They are switchable from triode (20 watts) to "ultra linear" (40 watts). I run them in triode all the time, and in my room, the volume knob almost never goes past 9 o'clock; more would just be too loud.
All that said, what do you guys think of running the De Capo's with a SET amp? And if I did, what's the best bargain in SET's these days?
Thanks!
rebbi
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
John,
This is what I mean, these low power amps cover a wide spectrum from poor to sublime performance.Some have said the Had amps lack good quality transformers(I have no personal knowledge to confirm or deny). I sure wouldn't judge SET/SEP amps on this one example. This is why I believe Brownsfan's three amplifier comparison driving the same speaker is going to be quite interesting.All 3 with the same power rating but very different design and parts quality approach.
Charles,
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
JMC, you are correct regarding the KT66, but I did want to throw it into the mix since I have it on hand. If it turned out to be a stellar performer with the deCapos, I'm sure ReBbi would want to know, SET or not.

With a very quick, initial listen back a couple months ago, the Inspire KT66 was much better with my Coincident Triumph Extreme IIs (94 dB) than with the de Capos. That was a 10 minute audition a while ago, so I think a more serious listen would be prudent.

Rebbi, I just got back in town after a whirlwind tour of the upper midwest. 1480 miles in three days, trying to get 3 kids back to school in two different states. I will get on this tomorrow evening and get you some preliminary results over the next couple days.
rebbi OP
1,326 posts
 
Brownsfan,
Very kind of you. Recover from your travels and take your time. :-)
peter_s
1,348 posts
 
I tried decappos with quicksilver 300b amplifiers in a 12x16 room. Not enough poser. Distortion at higher volumes.
peter_s
1,348 posts
 
Maybe a 211 type amp.
More to discover