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Shindo Labs Amps and Preamps

I have a pair of DeVore Fidelity Orangutan O/96 loudspeakers and am considering purchasing a Shindo Labs amp. and preamp. to pair with them.  I've been working with a very nice and helpful dealer who has recommended an amp. and preamp pair, but to optimize the combo it looks like I also need at least one Auditorium 23 Hommage SUT, as well as Auditorium 23 or Shindo interconnects and speaker cables.  The total cost is high (approximately $30K to $40K) so I'd like to get some opinions on whether Shindo is really that much better sounding than another amp and preamp pair for my loudspeakers.  Unfortunately, I don't live close enough to the dealer to listen for myself before purchasing.  I don't mind paying a premium and don't want to offend anyone by asking this question, but is Shindo really worth the cost in terms of sound and build quality?  Thank you for your time and assistance. 
pacific_nw
jwpstayman
391 posts
 
You might also want to consider Doshi amp/pre, another very good boutique, hand-made wonderful amplifier that will not break the bank, merely crack it!  Good Luck!
rhljazz
1,250 posts
 
I listened to the o/96's for several hours at my local dealer.  Amplification was a Leben CS 300x which is an integrated of 15W per channel (and it totally kicks #*# in dynamics) the sound was pure magic.  The Leben is under 4000.00 and saves you buying at least a pair of interconnects.  The dealer carries Shindo as well as Leben and Line Magnetic.  I don't recall the model of speaker cables. 
terry9
2,260 posts
 
For moving coil step up transformers, I like the Lundahl amorphous core / silver wire units. I use the 1931 Ag, which I find superb.
jperry
2,438 posts
 
I think you have to spend some time listening. The Shindo equipment is great sounding. Quite a few people I know with Shindo electronics use Devore O96 speakers.

Leben and Line Magnetic are also good matches for the Devore speakers as rhljazz mentioned above
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,239 posts
 

I believe most Shndo dealers also carry Leben and Line Magnetic products. If possible I'd try to hear all three with your speakers to determine if Shindo is indeed worth the premium (maybe, maybe not). Line Magnetic has gotten excellent owner word of mouth support, in particular their SET 300b, 845 and 805 tube based models.


With your efficient  speakers you do have many fine opprotunities to use excellent sounding low/mid power amplifiers. I agree with Larry's comments above, this genre of amps make beautiful music with the right speaker match. Dennis Had amp mentioned by Wolf or say the Coincident Dynamo MK II are lower priced but could be terrific mated with your speakers. Many good options for you.

Charles

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