2. amps-preamps
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Help choosing an amp for Thiel 2.7s

I just upgraded from Thiel 2.2s to Thiel 2.7s and my source is both vinyl (VPI Scout) and digital (PeachTree Idac) through a Classe Model 6 Preamp and B&K EX 442 AMP – both recently recapped. I am looking to replace either the amp or both amp and pre-amp. My first trial was with a pair of Bel Canto REF500M. In many ways they sound amazing – tighter bass, more extended highs, much blacker background. My only hang-up is that they seem to lack some of the body (midrange presence) of the B&K. As an example when playing Stevie Ray Vaughn my daughter asked why the guitar had moved so far to the background. Is there any way to have my cake and eat it too – or are these necessary trade-offs at my budget -- $5000 for the amp?

Any advice would be very appreciated
kadlec
sufentanil's avatar
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sufentanil
782 posts
 
I've heard the Thiels with a Plinius amp (SA-100 I think) that sounded fantastic, so I can confirm that Plinius mates well with the Thiels. It was one of the more three-dimensional and lifelike presentations I've heard over the years.

Michael
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drrsutliff
864 posts
 
I am driving a pair of Thiel 2.4 with a VAC tube amp - 100 watts per channel with excellent results.
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jafant
19,883 posts
 
All excellent suggestions- guys! It is interesting to read that both Mac & Plinius are sonic matches for Thiel.

Also, and more importantly, it is good to read that MIT cabling does well w/ Thiel. Kadlec, has many, many choices now. Keep me posted & Happy Listening!
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Used Pass 250.5 jump on one now.
dsper
663 posts
 
For what it is worth I am running a pair of Thiel 3.6s with a W4S ST1000, 1100 watts into 4 ohms. No problem.
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