Thiel Owners

Thanks for the insight guys, I was actually leaning towards the BAK VT500 but two votes in the ML camp says something right there.  Any tips on how to tell its condition other than the fins being black (which they are)?  Seems to work just fine from what I can tell and of course I have no complaints on the sound.  

The Levinson's are certainly up to the task of delivering on the Thiel's, but Harmon hasn't exactly built the best reputation for customer support, especially for the legacy models. FWIW, personally I prefer some of the vintage Krell's, Threshold's, etc...YMMV.

coop_301

Another thing to consider is actual amplifier size and weight.

I sold my BAT VK-500 because it was huge and weighed like 120lbs….and there was something too big about the sound and a bit rough on sibilance. 
 

I could easily manage that amp weight wise 5 years ago…but now it’s getting difficult. 
 

The Eagle 2 is very manageable physically. The only amp easier that Ive handled is the ZH-270. 
 

Also if you are just trying things out try the Crown XLS1500 or the Europower EP1500.

Thanks guys, I was hesitant about the ML because I read they're difficult to work on, which I figure would translate to high maintenance costs/difficulty finding a shop.  I'm going to ask Bill about that tomorrow to see if he works on them.   

I considered going with a Crown, it's obviously much cheaper and meant to work at those ohms.  The eagle is also quite reasonably priced too and the seller takes returns, so that's attractive as well.

Any thoughts on pre amps?  Is having an expensive (to me) power amp a waste if I don't get an equally capable (read pricey) pre amp?  Or can I be less fussy about a pre, so long as the basic voltage gain reqs are there?  I don't think the seller is interested in selling his Theta along with the ML. That theta is also huge, probably bigger than the ML!