2. speakers
  3. 1286840567

Merlin TSM with Manley Mahi-Mahi?

Hi, Gang,

Got my TSM-mmi's paired with a Manley Shrimp pre-amp feeding a Bel Canto S300 ("class D") power amp. I listen to lots of pop and "classic" rock and roll, with some classical, jazz and movie soundtracks, moderate volumes, smallish room (16 x 12 x 8 ft).

What would you think of a move from the S300 to something like the Manley Mahi's? Good move? Expected improvements, if any?

Thanks in advance!
rebbi
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,103 posts
 
Other than for pop/rock and perhaps movies at higher volumes perhaps, probably a reasonable move for a smaller room, assuming it matches well with the Manley pre-amp and you are up for dealing with a tube power amp.

Tube amps appear to be popular with TSMs, so I would expect good results there in general.
rebbi OP
1,326 posts
 
Map,

Yes, in general, people seem to think that the TSM's particularly sing with tubes. Just trying to find out if anybody has specific experience with the Manley's.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,103 posts
 
Reb, from what I recall, at least on paper, the weak link with what you have currently may be the match of the Manley pre-amp to that particular BC amp, with 20K input impedance as I recall. It may sound fine as is but I would expect things would be more articulate and controlled with a Class D amp designed to work well with tube preamps. These typically have 60K input impedance unbalanced or higher. I'd expect a tube amp to provide similar benefit and mate well with the tube pre-amp.
More to discover