@rinaldoberra.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Audio Research VT80SE amp vs Prima Luna EVO 400 or 300
It’s time to get a newer tube amp after years of happy listening to vintage mono tube amps- MFA M-120 to be precise. I will mate the new amp with my upgraded/updated MFA Luminescence preamp and power Sonus Faber Guarneri Homage speakers. The Lumi is deservedly a legend and has a fabulous phono stage, to boot.
I’ve read many reviews and comments about both the ARC and the Prima Luna gear but would greatly appreciate a response from folks who’ve had experience with either one or the other or preferably both.
My musical tastes are quite eclectic, but primarily "classical" and do not include heavy metal, nor much R+R or pop at this stage of my life. I’m partial to what some might call warm, romantic and "euphonic," and from what I know, Audio Research tends to be less "euphonic" than some other tube components. At the same time, I enjoy listening to subtle details that more syrupy components can obscure. Unfortunately, I cannot audition anything prior to purchase, neither in my home nor at a dealer. After much experimentation, I am convinced that SF GH's LOVE tubes!
Thanks in advance. Stay safe. Be well.
PS
I’ve read many reviews and comments about both the ARC and the Prima Luna gear but would greatly appreciate a response from folks who’ve had experience with either one or the other or preferably both.
My musical tastes are quite eclectic, but primarily "classical" and do not include heavy metal, nor much R+R or pop at this stage of my life. I’m partial to what some might call warm, romantic and "euphonic," and from what I know, Audio Research tends to be less "euphonic" than some other tube components. At the same time, I enjoy listening to subtle details that more syrupy components can obscure. Unfortunately, I cannot audition anything prior to purchase, neither in my home nor at a dealer. After much experimentation, I am convinced that SF GH's LOVE tubes!
Thanks in advance. Stay safe. Be well.
PS
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- 51 posts total
op paragon is an excellent retailer... careful and trustworthy https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa776d-audio-research-vsi75-integrated-amplifier-silver-finish-open-box-tube no affiliation, other than having been a past customer |
After much further research and consideration, I have decided to test drive a Prima Luna Evo 300 integrated. The dealer offers a generous 60-day trial period, which raises my comfort level considerably. The dealer also owns a pair of the same speakers as I do and chooses to use an Evo Integrated to power them. He could use any electronics on the planet. I will report back. Thanks again for all your contributions. |
@ps Don't hesitate to try different 12AU7 tubes and their variants in the two front center positions on the integrated. They will change the sound characteristics more than any other tube swap. Although I also changed my power tubes to NOS Mullard EL34 XF2's and was rewarded with a sound with more weight and openess. Enjoy and experiment with your 60 days.... |
- 51 posts total