Audio Research and Martin Logan Montis

I drive my Martin Logan SL3s with an Audio Research Ref 110, and before that a VT 100. Martin Logan speakers work really well with tube amps. But they can sound a bit closed in with out enough power. At one point I had a VT 200 in my system. The SL3s opened up a bit more but not enough for me to justify doubling the number of power tubes. The Ref 110 was a huge improvement over my VT 100.

I know, I have heard how powerful the Ref 75 is. Still if it were me I would opt for the Ref 150. If possible though I would like to hear both amps with the Montis.

The whole Audio Research Ref line of amps is about to be replaced with new SE versions this month. it should be easy to find a good deal on either amp right now.

Jump on ARC asap would be great!!

The whole Audio Research Ref line of amps is about to be replaced with new SE versions this month. it should be easy to find a good deal on either amp right now.

Really? Dump a REF for REF SE with HUGE loss basically for a set of KT150s? Can't upgrade?

03-01-15: Ebm
Jump on ARC asap would be great!!

I rather dump, I meant jump on Magico asap would be greatER!!

I remember going to a demo that was showcasing top end Martin Logans with Bryston (solid state) vs the same Martin Logans with Jadis (tube) equipment. The Bryston gear was good no doubt, but the Jadis was magical.

I would be wary of any tube amp with these speakers to make them perform at their absolute best.
As at 4khz they give a nasty 3ohms and -55 degree phase angle. Which would be more like a 1-2ohm load as seen by the amp.

An amp that "almost" doubles it's wattage for each halving of load impedance down to 2ohm would be the amp to look for.
EG:
8ohms - 100watt
4ohms - 200watt
2ohms - 400watt

http://www.stereophile.com/content/martinlogan-montis-loudspeaker-measurements

Cheers george