Seeing my post has resurfaced I feel I should update. I purchased the XA25 last May however really haven't given it it's due regarding playing time. Been building a second house and not spent much time with the XA25. In November I purchased an almost new Aric Audio Transcend amplifier. Over the 2 months of ownership of the Transcend I have put more hours on it than I have during the previous 6 months with the XA25. Not because I feel it is better than the XA25 but due to the Transcend arriving and getting placed into my system when I have more time for listening sessions. I am very happy with both amplifiers and once moved into the audio room in the new home will be spending more time with both. The Sterlings are easily driven by both amplifiers. I really need to spend more time prior to commenting regarding either amplifiers virtues. I also have a pair of Esoteric MG10s which due to being of lower impedance I feel would be better driven by the XA25.
Considering a Raven Audio Blackhawk Integrated for Tannoy Sterlings
I am currently driving the Sterlings with a BEL 1001 MK5 SS amp (50wpc), itself driven by an Aric Audio Special all tube preamp. System is digital based with an Audio Mirror Tubadour III DAC fed by Mac Mini or CD transport.
The system sounds wonderful, however I am looking to simplify, and have not experienced tubes in the power amplifier stage. The Blackhawk is 20wpc. I auditioned the Sterlings with a Luxman 20wpc class A SS amplifier. That amp drove them very well in a room volume greater than my room. I am aware that Raven Audio allows a 45 day trial period with loss of shipping only if one wished to return the integrated.
I find the Tannoys to have a certain warmth that I enjoy. Not thinking that I need any more provided by an amplifier. Love the 'bloom' and 'air' around notes, soundstaging, and imaging provided by tubes.
Obviously, given the trial period I could audition the pairing in my own room. I am just looking for thoughts from members herein, some that own Raven or Tannoy. Thanks in advance.
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@jjss49 True about sonic flavors. The Pass seemed to have a more dynamic attack while the Aric has a more fleshed out finish, note for note. Both provide great sound staging when available on the recording. The Aric seems somewhat warmer. Honestly, I need more time with both amps. I am thinking the PASS is not yet fully broken in. I am expecting my new room to provide a better perspective than the one I am in now. My near field approach to speakers won't change much but there will be a greater difference in the distance of the speakers from the front wall than from he side walls. Should improve soundstage. I am in the process of finishing the butcher block shelves I am using for my built into the wall audio rack. Will be moving my stereo into the room soon. May not have a bathroom for a couple months but will have a dedicated room. Priorities one must understand :).
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- 56 posts total