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
 
Rebbi,
Regarding David's comments, it isn't surprising. He may believe his carefully chosen parts yield the best sound and he may be right. Builders vary in their opinion on "upgrade" parts. He seems to suggest that aspect has been covered via listening/testing process. Speculation is all you have until you can personally listen. Mdemaio was certainly impressed and that's all we have to go by at this point. The 1000.00 cost difference(AN vs Audio Nirvana) represents established vs the new upstar factor. I get the sense David's amp "might" be more of an all out assault than the Bottlehead (only a gut feeling, nothing more).
rebbi OP
1,326 posts
 
Charles1dad,
Did you mean Bottlehead or Audio Note in that last comment.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Rebbi,
I meant Bottlehead. You had mentioned them earlier and pricewise they compete with the Audio Nirvana. I realize I did just pop them into my last post. I'm curious to see what you select from this strong list of contenders.
gsm18439
895 posts
 
Rebbi

I visit China three or four times each year - sometimes more. While I cannot attest to the wages and conditions of the workers used by the Commonsense manufacturer, the standard of living in China is no longer third world. I would not worry that you are contributing to oppression of the masses. Just the opposite.

As far as 300b tubes are concerned, however, you do have a point. Top of the line 300b tubes sound different and better and sweeter (and more linear) than stock tubes. But they are pricey.
gsm18439
895 posts
 
Larryi

I came to the conclusion that my speaker cable runs (estimated at 30 feet) contributed to the thin sound of the 45 and 2a3 amps. Plus Phil (213Cobra) is adamant that the Def 4s need more than just a a couple of watts.
More to discover