Goldmund Mimesis Questions


Has anyone heard a Goldmund Mimesis SRI before (or any of the lower end of the Mimesis series)? If so, what were your thoughts? Additionally, have you heard a Classe CA-150 (my current amplifier)? Could you compare them for me by any chance if so? Even a general comparison between Classe and Goldmund stuff of equivalent price would be a huge help.

I'm looking to try a potentially leaner sounding amplifier with a bit more detail and bite. I've been told the Job 225 is a great idea to try, but finding a used one is impossible, so I'm trying to find out more about the rest of the Goldmund range that pops up used.

I wouldn't normally ask here, but no one in New England (to my knowlege) has / sells used/new Goldmund gear and no one I know in my normal circles has any idea about it.

I'm running a Berkeley Alpha DAC Series 1 and Holt Hill Audio Cionnsailes for speakers, if that matters for the comparison.

Thank you for reading and thank you in advance for any help / info that you can provide.
ixt7265
Hola,tengo un goldmund sri desde hace tiempo,me gusta mucho..es potente,ràpido  y analitico..
Tengo que cambiar de sala y lo quiero vender.
629687602
Spain

Hello, this is a late response: I have just seen your post. I am very familiar with the Goldmund SRI. I bought one in 1998. I also have heard the integrated amplifiers from Classé ( CAP-100 and CAP-150). Both were excellent but they have a different presentation compared to the Goldmund. Classé is darker-sounding and very dynamic. Goldmund is clearer and more transparent, dynamics are among the best in the world. They are known for their neutrality and speed. Very expensive to repair.. when they break down. Customer service is not very good .. Goldmund has a poor reputation unfortunately. I have never owned a Classé amplifier but this brand is more reliable. At this level, as they say, it is a matter of taste. I am willing to sell the Goldmund but it needs to be repaired (for the second time..). For my taste, the SRI is the best integrated amplifier I have ever heard. At the time of purchase, it was the most expensive integrated amplifier available. Much more could be said but this is it, in a nutshell. Best of luck in your search.

I know this is also a late replay. 

I've owned a Classe-CA100 amplifier for 16 years and have also a Goldmund Mimesis 27+ preamp.  The Classe is pleasant sounding with a slightly dark in nature sound that is absolutely comfortable and enjoyable to listen to.  It has plenty of power but provides a nice relaxed yet still engaging sound.  I my experience, it does not have much of the sonic harsh edges that may be found more in amps that push an analytical, extended nature.  The dimensionality of the sound stage is very good but not as good as some more expensive amps of course.  However, I fully appreciate the Classe sound.  The amps does vary significantly depending on the preamp that it's mated to.    As for the Goldmund, mine is a higher end preamp but I think it is generally represents their character.  It has great strength in transparency, impact slam, purity.  it has a strong bass foundation and a very transparent midrange that is still full and rich sounding.  It is not quite as extended and airy in the high as my Ayre preamp but it excels in dynamics and body meshed with transparency and imaging.  it is not as neutral as my Bryston preamp but I feel when compared with the Bryston, the Goldmund give a fuller, more complete sonic picture on a clean background.  Both Classe and Goldmund have their strengths and many people enjoy their aspects, I'm sure.  it just depends on what you like.  I have also tube amps and preamps and comparison to these solid state amps is a different story.  I live in New England.  The only other person I know who knows Goldmund very well is the owner of Natural Sound in Framingham, MA.