2. amps-preamps
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Transients hurting my ears on hifi solid state amps

I've looked at many discussions on listening fatigue and similar topics, but haven't really found the answer to the specific problem I've been having.

To me, modern higher end solid state amplifiers tend have too much slam or too sharp transients and that ends up hurting my ears even at 60db levels. Even listening to mellow jazz, the piano notes are just uncomfortable to listen to because of the attack.

I currently have Buchardt S300 Mk II speakers, which are not high sensitivity by any stretch, and are rather smooth sounding, but I don't know if they could contribute to the issue somehow?

The worst case regarding amplifiers I tried was the Rogue Sphinx V2, which is 100W hybrid Class D with tube preamp. Another I had at home for an extended period and had an issue with was the Arcam SA20, which should be a relatively smooth sounding amplifier, and it did get a little closer to what I was looking for.

I currently have a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated and I'm very happy with it. The amp I tried to replace was a Marantz PM6005, which is also very smooth. Both are under the recommended power rating of the speakers (even though that's relative for a tube amp), so I'm wondering whether that could be part of it.

I listen mostly to vinyl (Graham Slee Reflex M preamp) with some digital too (Denafrips Pontus II). Both are relatively smooth and vinyl, while usually being softer, doesn't solve the issue. 

I'm looking to switch back to solid state (class AB) for various reasons and I was wondering if anybody had had similar experiences and recommendations for amps? Most amps, especially higher end, tend to emphasize the dynamics, punch, agility, etc. and I struggle to find anything that would seem to fit the bill. Tubes seem to do the trick for me, especially with some tube rolling, but not sure where to go with solid state. The budget would be around 2000$.

haskisoundi
flasd's avatar
flasd
89 posts
 

Look at Oddessy Audio… Klaus the owner is well respected in the industry. His Khartago Extreme SS Amp can be had for $1450.00. One of the best builds for the price… Read the reviews these amps are keepers you don’t see many of them used and they come with a 20 year warranty that’s transferable. Klaus also makes great PreAmps in both SS & Tube, just be prepared to wait a bit on his pre’s being he can’t make them fast enough due to the demand and reputation.

You also can check out Tube4hifi.com,also known as VTA. Roy the owner makes some amazing preamps that you could add to your SS amp. His SP-14 is an industry classic. Check out the online reviews. He also does some pretty amazing things with his Dynaco 70 Amp Mods.

Both of these guys are pretty respected in the industry and it might be worthwhile to check them out being they could go over amplifier characteristics and nuances with you and probably meet your needs.

Myself I’m using an Odyssey Khartago Extreme Amp & Tubes4Hifi SP-13 Preamp and really enjoying my set up…

www.odysseyaudio.com

www.tubes4hifi.com

mickeyb
576 posts
 

Get an older krell class A amp. They are very smooth and non fatiguing. The ksa series and you can have them rebuilt for under a grand. The build quality is exceptional and it’s pure class A. They do get hot but man do they sound sweet. 
 

boxcarman
422 posts
 

Try a different power cord.  Or speaker cables.  Experiment.  Everything DOES make a difference.

haskisoundi OP
25 posts
 

I currently have a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated and I'm very happy with it.

Are you happy with it, and it does not have the shrillness?

Yes, I'm very happy with the Primaluna, but looking for a solid state alternative

Is the Marantz the shrill one?

No, that and the Puccini are SS that are smooth enough for me, but lack in other areas.

I'm looking to switch back to solid state (class AB) for various reasons

What are those?

I currently have my main system in the living room, which is also connected to TV and used for background music, so the hassle of warm up time, no stand by, etc. is leading to less listening. Also, I'm trying to avoid something that heats up as much and uses that much current.

 

haskisoundi OP
25 posts
 

Thanks @duckworp for the detailed account. Sorry to hear you have the same or a similar issue, but happily you have found a good option for music listening. Your problems sound very familiar, albeit perhaps a little stronger. It does seem that very high end gear can produce fantastic sound without being aggressive and hopefully, taking care of the issues solid state produces. Thanks for the feedback on Naim, it does have a reputation for dynamics and liveliness, so perhaps not the best option. Perhaps a used Luxman could be in my budget.

The EQ is an good idea to investigate, especially as they can be had for cheap. It would be interesting to see if certain frequencies are the issue.

Thanks again for all the fantastic suggestions, I will look into Odyssey, Krell, etc. that are options closer to my budget.

If I did go that class A route, does anyone have experience with First Watt amplifiers in this context? I know the different models have different flavors and I'm not sure which would be most suitable (if any). Used or a DIY kit could make that option more affordable. Any relatively cheap solid state preamp recommendations for a class A power amp?

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