2. amps-preamps
  3. 184002-179316

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
laecp123 OP
13 posts
 

I agree with ghdprentis   I heard the Audio Research I50 amp at the same dealer as the Ma252 and it sounded great. Clear defined smooth but with weight. It is too much money right now for me and very rarely see it used. The Yamaha is a well built good sounding amp and I guess I just want to try and see how a tube or hybrid amp will sound daily in my house. Maybe it is the nature of this hobby. I have been collecting and listening to music most of my 62 years and am just starting to get interested in the sounds from the equipment. The system I have now I waited till the kids moved out and were settled till I splurged.  And am enjoying the heck out of it. Just thought maybe something even better……..?    

laecp123 OP
13 posts
 

Also. Anybody using the Willsenton R8. I have seen the you tube stuff. Just want to know from real users and actual reliability. Looks well made but no experience with it. Also I wrote the wrong size room I am dealing with it is about 300 sf with 8 foot ceilings and two openings. Thanks again. 

grislybutter
2,912 posts
 

there are about 60 Audio Research amplifiers on craigslist in the US.

Craiglist tend to have much lower prices and of course, a lot more scam. No i/50 there, but at least 5 on hifishark. Seems like people hold onto them.

 

laecp123 OP
13 posts
 

Thank you @grislybutter   I will take a look. Just figured out the hyperlink stuff. 

soix
9,453 posts
 

I would be remiss to not mention this Octave amp that rarely comes up for sale and gets stellar reviews.  At 70Wpc not sure if it has the juice you need, but the manufacturer states it’s stable down to 2 Ohms so still may be worth a look.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649967135-octave-se-70-s-integrated-tube-amp/

https://www.soundstageultra.com/index.php/equipment-menu/423-octave-audio-v-70-se-integrated-amplifier

Another hybrid option would be Unison Unico amps that also get great reviews and have plenty of power.  Here are a couple worth a look…

https://tmraudio.com/components/integrated-amplifiers/unison-research-unico-90-stereo-tube-hybrid-integrated-amplifier-silver-open-box/

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649941719-unison-research-unico-due-black/
 

In the looks camp it’s a no-brainer — the Pathos is a stunner.  Here’s a nice used unit for only $1100 that might be tough to pass up, and you have the flexibility to add another one and run them in monoblock configuration for 180 Wpc if you find you need or want more power.  Plus you double down on its gorgeous looks. 
 

Anyway, you have lots of great options and these are just a few more to chew on FWIW.  Best of luck. 

More to discover