Which 300b amplifier for Devore O/96

essrand

Well I am not surprised that you liked your 300Bs better than the Class D amps. Kind of an apples to oranges comparison. Take to heart what Ralph has said about how SETs sound when pushed. I truly believe that both P.P. and SETs are intrinsically inferior on the right speakers when compared with OTLs. Also, with respect, I couldnt disagree more with shkong78 reagrding his insistence on the influence that 300B tubes have on any SET design. In my experience the driver tubes have at least as much impact, somtimes more than the power tubes themselves. Tubes usually nudge, sometimes significantly, but they do not transform.

With SETs, the quality and specs seem to make quite a bit of difference as well.  

Hello essrand,
You have generated an interesting thread which has yielded informed responses. As the varied comments here demostrate, there are simply no absolutes in regard to High End audio and personal listening objectives. Your experience with the Coincident Frankenstein vs Lyngdorf mirrors that of cal3713 in preferring the Frankenstein. Yet there’s no doubt that some other listeners would prefer the Lyngdorf.

SET vs OTL, again this will result in another split decision. How could it be otherwise? So many variables/specific scenarios/ listener taste for there to be any other outcome. Any blanket statement that one particular topology is superior to all others regardless of circumstances is patently false. I’ve owned the Coincident Frankenstein for nearly 10 years and it’s a superb 300b SET. So I appreciate and agree with comments from drdavid. However I certainly recognize it won’t be the right choice for everyone.

Essrand the list of alternative 300b SETs you are considering is a formidable one. I’m pretty certain each will sound excellent and no doubt different than your Frankenstein. But better? Maybe or maybe not. I’m glad that you’ll be able to hear the Nagra and decide for yourself. I hope you can hear and compare all of the amplifiers on your list. They are all held in high esteem. I don’t see a bad choice no matter what you ultimately decide.

Essrand I bought the Takatsuki 300bs direct from Japan about 6 years ago and they are fabulous in the Frankenstein. For my needs/taste I prefer the EML XLS. I know that others will disagree but that’s okay. Just personal choice.
Best of luck,
Charles

Essrand,

If you have access to one then I highly recommend you try the Overture out, I am sure you will not regret it.

I am running mine with a GE-1 and refurbished TD-124/SPU combo along with a Swissonor step-up. All in all in a happy place.

If you are dead-set on 300b, don't forget the Tron Atlantic or for that matter the Allnic T-1500.

Brgds,

Peter

I am the importer and reseller for Art Audio.  Our Diavolo 300B is legendary and has been steadily improved over 20 years.  I would put it up against any of these and I am 100% certain the Diavolo will win.  It is available in stereo, mono-block and integrated.  We also offer a Harmony Silver version which eliminated PCBs and is point-to-point wired using silver wire.  

We have great reviews on older models and the amp is even better now.  And because I am consumer direct, you get a bit sharper of a price with no wholesaler margin.  I will also give you 30 days in-home with it.  And we offer upgrades to either KR or Sophia Tubes (for a price) and we have a bunch of other options available.  Your only risk is return shipping.  

Basically, I believe you should be able to get your amp, your way.  

I know you said your not interested in other options but I promise, you won’t regret considering us.

artaudio.us is our website.