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What to try?

Currently have Yamaha As1200 integrated with KLH Model 5.  Looking to get a more refined sound with a tube integrated.  220 square foot room,  8 foot ceilings.  I  am getting a somewhat foreword presentation now but good solid clear sound with punch.  Thinking about a Pathos Classic One MkIII or Willsenton R8 or Line Magnetic KT88.  The Pathos is a hybrid but have heard good things.  Play mostly vinyl with Fluance RT 85 and Ortofon Blue. Listen to mostly rock and alt country and some classical.   Just thinking of dipping my toes into tubes to get a different sound.  Any suggestions?

laecp123
mesch
3,510 posts
 

The KLH Model Five has a 6ohm  impedance with a low impedance 0f 3.5. It has a sensitivity of 88-89 at 1 watt. Of your three listed integrateds, and given my interpretation of your quest,  I believe the Pathos to be the best choice. Another possibility is a  Vincent SV 237, also a hybrid integrated. 

I have owned the Pathos Classic One MKII and a Vincent SV-226 MKII (smaller brother to the SV236). I believe the more recent Vincent 237 has more punch while the Pathos to be somewhat more refined. 

I believe your Yamaha has a Phonostage. The other amps do not. The choice of phonostage and cartridge has much to do with the sonic presentation. If you like the Yammy you might consider making changes there. 

 

 

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,701 posts
 

Budget?

kota1
2,706 posts
 

Checkout a McIntosh hybrid:

https://www.mcintoshlabs.com/products/integrated-amplifiers/MA252

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