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Thoughts on system change VTL to NuPrime ?

My system for years has been an original series Rega Planet CD player into a VTL TL 2.5 (older metal remote version) tube pre-amp into VTL TT-25 Limited Edition tube monoblocks amps into original series Spendor S3/5 speakers and a REL T5 sub. I have not been listening to it as much as I did previously and "think" I might be ready to change things up - more general convenience (i.e. good sounding and easy access to Pandora, no tubes to bias), less heat output and possibly more detail and "realism" in the sound.

Been reading about the NuPrime IDA-8 digital integrated to possibly replace the pre-amp and amps and to update the CD player with the IDA -8's internal DAC. I think I would like to push the sound closer to neutral, but still err on the warm side. Anyone heard the IDA-8? Thoughts on how it might play in my system? Would need to sell the tube gear before trying/buying so interested in all opinions/options.
Thanks!
cspaldi
raymonda
855 posts
 
No, I went from A/AB to tubes. Classe' 150 and Five to Audible Illusion M3A and Rogue M120. I enjoyed the Classe units for many years but wanted something that would give me a bit more organic sound. The change delivered in spades.

I do have 3 class D amps that I use in other systems. They are not SOTA class D but they work well for their usage. I just don't think I could go class D for my big system.

Also, your VTL units are really very nice and coupled with the right speakers should be fantastic. I would only dump them for tubes that might move me forward or for speakers that I must have and that are too demanding for tubes.
rhljazz
1,254 posts
 
Bad idea, especially if you are looking for more detail and realism. That's what tubes do best. Class D will generate less heat but that's about it. My W4s amp isn't bad, but I still prefer my tube amps most of the time.
I would suggest an audition of a modern tube friendly stand mount speaker.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Cspaldi,
What is the likelihood you could do a direct comparison in your system? That's the ultimate solution. Generally speaking I find that a good tube pre amp/power amp provides the most "realism" listening experience but that's me. You may hear things quite differently. Even within the genre of tube components, there are obvious differences in presentation/realism effect.
Good luck to you.
Charles,
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
There's a used IDA-8 listed today. If I were in your situation I'd purchase a used unit for comparison. If it doesn't meet your needs sell it off at a minimal loss. Well worth it for the experience IMO.
I use a Nuforce HDP dac/headphone amp and love it's full warm sound. Not sure about the newer NuPrime integrateds though.
mervinpearce's avatar
mervinpearce
15 posts
 
I bought the NuPrime IDA-8 and got rid of my Bryston 4B and my Emotiva XPA-2 Gen 2.  I am blown away by the sound and image coming from this tiny unit.  I then bought the IDA-16 which I drive my Vivid Audio V1.5 with.  The IDA-8 drive a pair of Sonus Faber Cremona Auditors. 

I have also ordered 2 x NuPrime STA-9 (bridgeable) and a DAC-9.

I am converted to the NuPrime high switching (600kHz) class D amps.  Absolutely no hint of the old class D problems.
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