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Pass Labs X250 with merlin VSM-mm/system overhaul?

Hello,
This is my first post on this board. I own a pair of Merlin VSM-mm's with Super Bam - current CD player is a Sony SCD-555es and amplification is bryston B-60 with occasional berning EA-230 and Bedini 25-25 amplification. I understand that this is not the perfect situation - solid state preamp section on my bryston running the berning or bedini.
I guess I need an overhaul of my system - looking to run a new preamp - ditch the bryston bedini and berning and get a new amplifier. I don't believe that the super high end esoteric stuff is my game - so I don't want to spend more than 2000 for a preamp and similarly on an amp(used). Oh - and I NEED a remote for the pre - not having a remote for the bryston has driven me nuts. tube preamp and ss amp - that's what I'm thinking. Not really interested in an integrated - actually not at ALL.
Best Regards,
Brian
77cooper
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
Consider the Dodd preamp. It's battery powered, so you also save by not needing an expensive power cable. Tremendous value, and dead quiet. You can tweak it a bit by your choice of tubes. Looks gorgeous and has a nice matching volume-only remote. In your price range.
For a ss amp to match w/the Merlins the Belles Hot Rod is a good choice that's affordable. Cheers,
Spencer
sns
3,226 posts
 
The Joule preamps are commonly used with Merlins. I use a modified Joule LA 100Mk.III, this will nicely warm up any SS amp.

I also can't imagine Merlins sounding their best with any SS amps, these speakers are best suited for tube amps. I'm not saying SS won't work, just not the best.
Post removed 
lapierre
547 posts
 
Agree with Sns but add the AR amp below.

Joule Electra la-100mkiii line stage preamp
Audio Research VT 200 tub amp

Both are on the GON
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