Merlin TSM with Manley Mahi-Mahi?

Guys,

Thanks for all the posts.

I remember when I was first changing my amplification from an integrated amp to separates, I was fretting over the whole input/output impedance question. As it turns out, the Shrimp is somewhat unique in that it will "drive almost anything," because its output impedance is only 50 ohms! It is thus, in theory as I understand it, one of the only valve preamplifiers that constitutes a good match for the S300, which has an input impedance of 10k ohms.

In any case, I suspect that the combination of the mahi-mahi's with the Shrimp would be very sweet. I'm thinking about it…

Rebbi,

Yes I recall that vaguely, but the real impedance can still vary widely by frequency and cannot be known to that degree of detail for certain unless measured or speced out perhaps at different frequencies rather than just a single generalized number, though 50ohm output is a very good number for a tube pre-amp in general FWIW.

Nevertheless, jumping from 10K input impedance to 10X that with a different amp will still likely have a positive effect I would wager, though perhaps less so than if the pre-amp did not appear to be well towards the favorable end of things in general already.

You'll only know for sure when you listen and compare.

Though, a tube preamp with relatively low output impedance feeding an amp with 100K+ input impedance should safely put things well into the "green" zone without doubt at least on paper, in that both numbers that determine the ratio are both now well into the green zone as well.

Took the plunge and bought a pair of Mahi's here on A'gon at a very good price! Yay! I'll report back on the results. :-)

Good move Rebbi! You will enjoy the Merlin TSM's even more with quality tube electronics.

Guppy. Thanks! I've never owned a tube power amp before so I'm psyched about the change. I know that there are pricier tube amps than the Mahi's, but the reviews are strong and I know Bobby likes the Merlins with tubes, so we'll see!