2. amps-preamps
  3. 126339-21902

Need amp suggestions for Hedlund Horns....

A few months ago, I heard a Cary 300b amp hooked up to some small monitors and was blown away... so the itch to upgrade started.

I just bought used a pair of Hedlund horns... came with it (free) was a diy homemade tube amp that does not sound adequate (based on what I heard these horns can do).

I’m in the market for a used amp that would be the ideal match for these Hedlunds. From what I read, I have several options such as 300b, 2A3, etc. but what would you recommend?  I've never had a low-power SET amp before.  

My room is 25’x 30’ with vaulted ceilings (large enough), wood floors, fairly open. I listen to everything from classic jazz, horns, classical, vocals, and the occasional rock. I would love to have some volume to feel the energy and texture of the song.


128x128ramoneo14
ramoneo14's avatar
ramoneo14 OP
17 posts
 
@charles1dad  + Yes I placed a bid for the Tube Audio Labs Western Electric Clone 2A3 Stereo Amplifier for $525 and it was accepted.  Did some reading before and read all the happy owners of Min's builds.  I now have some extra cash to put in a nice preamp.  Was thinking of several options:  Some type of passive preamp like a Tortuga LDR3.v2 /Lightspeed or if there is another recommendation in the sub $1k.  

I know system synergy is what I'm after.  My speakers are AER MK1 loaded in a Hedlund horn at about 102db efficiency.  My sources will be: VPI Scout II to a Sutherland Ph3D Phono Pre, a Marantz DV8400 multi player, and an Original DaVinci CD player.  I'm not sure of specs for the coming Tube Audio Labs 2A3 amp.  

Any suggestions? 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi Ramoneo,
Congratulations on acquiring the amplifier. I’ve  read good comments on the Tubes Audio Labs products over the years. Based on Min’s reputation I assume that the transformers and parts are of good quality. If so you bought a quality SET for quite a good price 😊.

Your intention to try a passive preamplifier makes sense and could be an ideal match, you won’t know unless you try. At some point you can compare it to your VTL and see which one is preferable. You’re definitely putting together a very nice system.
Charles,
jond's avatar
jond
5,847 posts
 
@ramoneo14 awesome news congrats on the new amp! And what a great deal at that price I would've bought it and I love my amp! Let us know how it sounds when it gets there. I don't know a ton about passives but this looks like a pretty good unit.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/solid-state-luminous-audio-axiom-2-passive-preamplifier-walker-mod...

But of course see how your VTL works first, the most affordable gear is what  you already own! Happy listening!

bradf's avatar
bradf
329 posts
 
Since your considering a passive pre-amp, you may find the following link on the Lightspeed Attenuator interesting and a preamp to consider.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/lightspeed-attenuator-best-preamp-ever
rvnye
21 posts
 
Are the speakers in your profile picture hedlund horns??  Hedlund horns are massive (close to 7 feet tall).  Anyway, do you live in southern CA?  I would love to match my amplifier with your speakers.  I have a Woo Audio WA-5.  It's a 300B SET with Takatsuki 300B tubes.  It cost a lot, but I'm really impressed with the build quality and sound so far.  I have my eyes on a set of Medallion IIs with Lowther drivers.  You really have a nice set of speakers. 
More to discover