2. amps-preamps
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Building a system from scratch (other than speakers)

Hello all! This is my first post. I am a relative newbie when it comes to hifi but have been doing some research and reading the forums for a while now. I am looking to build a two channel system with the best quality sound for the money. My budget is approx. $5K. I have a pair of Martin Logan Theos in my home theater that I will be pulling out for the dedicated hifi setup. 
Mainly I'm looking for preamp and amp advice. I know a point of contention is the tube v ss debate, but have read on this forum and others that you get the most out of electrostatics with tubes. I know virtually nothing first hand about tubes so am concerned about maintenance and high ongoing cost. I don't have a lot of listening time anyway, less time for working on components. Is this something to worry about? 
Also, brand/model suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm concerned about mismatching the speakers and amp.
For cd I am looking at the OPPO BDP 105d and for vinyl the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon, but would appreciate advice here as well. 
Thank you all in advance!

arisingsound
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 

Arisingsound, yes, I use a Mac Mini, and I have PCM (ripped CD tracks uncompressed) in an AIFF format, and also DSD files for playback. From the Mac Mini I use a quality USB cable to... (here's where the options jump in number) you can select from the following options, and yet more:

DAC with preamp function (volume control) paired with amp

Preamp with DAC paired with amp

DAC paired with an Integrated amp

Any one of these options can yield terrific results.

douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
I should have added Integrated amp with DAC
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 

I'm rushing too quickly; software such as Audirvana, Amarra or HQPlayer is tremendously beneficial in playback of such files.

There are many full featured servers for file playback as well with built in DAC, storage, and software to link to phone or tablet.

Just keep researching as it will be well rewarded.

pokey77
1,265 posts
 

I currently have ML Vantages paired with a McIntosh MA6500 integrated (solid state/200wpc) and an Oppo 105. This setup works very well for me. The Vantages, as well as your Theos, need a lot of clean power to make them shine. I've never tried tubes but you will need a lot of power/current to make your speakers sing. I have heard my system with a 100 watt Anthem integrated as well and I did not like how dark and rolled off it was. The MA6500 is a good match, IMO, with very nice midrange, strong bass (if its in the material) and good clean airy highs. I have never had any problems with "circuit protection" like terry9 mentions above. And I use my system as both 2 channel music and 2 channel home theatre. When I watch fun movies like Casino Royale and The Matrix, the volume is up to 12 PM and the sofa is vibrating and the Vantages have never shut off or sounded compromised. They perform very nicely at high volumes, whether playing music or movies.

The 105 works very good and I'm super happy with it. I'd buy it again.

For more help, check out MartinLoganowners dot com. You may find threads of interest there. Good luck in your journey.

terry9
2,328 posts
 
Pokey, as I said, it's for malfunctioning equipment and head banging owners. If your amp can't produce the signal, the protection circuit is superfluous.

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