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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
 
Thanks Bill,
I look forward to reading about your listening experiences with these different amplifiers. My average listening levels are 75-80db C weighted. So I realize my amplifier is only providing 1/10 to 1/4 of a watt. Most likely I'm using less then one watt of power probably 90 to 95% of the time I listen to music. I sit about ten feet from my speakers. Bill, on paper your new amp looks quite special and should sound exceptionally natural and realistic.
Charles,
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,646 posts
 
We listen at the same volumes it seems. Yeah, C weighted.

Charles, due your amps hum/buzz at all through your speakers? If so, how loud is it? Hear it 2 feet away only?
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
I have a very soft hum that is heard with ears within about six inches. The irony is this, my push push amplifiers have no sound within 6 inches of the speaker yet when music is played, the SET reproduces tiny nuances and details that are totally missed my the other amplifiers. Ambiance is preserved better than any other amp I have tried. Audio results are fascinating to observe.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi Bill,
I googled your amplifier and found some very interesting information regarding it on Black Swamp audio and also found a review on Posiitive Feedback Online issue number 32. Bill I really like the concept and design of this amplfier, I like the decision to use a lower voltage on the plate and also the decision to go with a lower heat dissipation. I am really curious to see how this amplifier mates with your speaker. I get the feeling that this amplifier will be very pure and organic in character, yet also dynamic and lively. It should be much fun experimenting with this amplifier in your system.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,646 posts
 
I read those also and was intrigued. I should have it by next Friday.
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