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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
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.
mr_bill
347 posts
 
How do you like your IDA-16?
mervinpearce's avatar
mervinpearce
15 posts
 
The IDA-16 and IDA-8 has different sound presentations. The IDA-16 controls the V1.5 with force and have total control over the complete spectrum. No hint of metal drivers and it seems to be a perfect fit for the Vivid Audio speakers. In a ’speaker shootout’ the NuPrime IDA-8 was used on V1.5 and everyone was amazed and it was rated (by some) above the Sonus Faber Extremas (being driven by something other than NuPrimes as they need massive current before blooming).

I am taking the IDA-16 with a head to head comparison against a Devialet on Vivid Audio B1s. This will be a January when I am back in my country. I will post my observations.

Final thought: I love the IDA-16 on the Vivids
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