2. amps-preamps
  3. 163311-1457

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
ps
keeferdog
50 posts
 
I run PrimaLuna with Sonus Faber speakers. Great synergy!
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
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.


i agree with this ^^^
ps OP
747 posts
 
@rushfan71

Thanks for your suggestion and good cheer. I want to wait until the Evo has at least 100 hours before experimenting with other tubes, but I likely will try either Brimars or Mullards.

@docfletch Thanks. But I’m a confirmed tubeaholic.  And after many years of using separates, I'm increasingly inclined to go with an integrated amplifier. 

@keeferdog. Thanks. I will say that after a mere 12 hours of run-in time on the Evo 300, my SF Guarnieri Homage’s are sounding mighty nice. :)
tuberculin
81 posts
 
@ rushfan71 has it down. I have the PL DP HP's also and I drive 85 db speakers with ease. It's linearity mates well with the linear impedance of my speakers. By rolling the 12AU7s, as he says, you can have everything you want. The point to point wiring and overall build quality are a big selling point. As best as I can tell the only advantage of the EVO is they are balanced and if your preamp isn't balanced there is not much advantage to the EVO as a power amp.

Most importantly, be sure your speakers mate with the amp in damping and sensitivity, as I am sure you have already done.
ps OP
747 posts
 
@tuberculin Thanks for your contribution. One reason I have the Evo 300 integrated on trial is that the proprietor of the store runs the exact same speakers as mine, only he’s using an Evo 400.

After only 15 hours of break-in I have to say that so far so very, very good. I’ve pretty much decided to go with an integrated and might just sell all my MFA gear. The MFA gear requires a LOT more tubes, for one thing. :)  I've got at least another 85 hours of run-in time ahead. Happy so far.
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