I had the Montis (similar to 11A) paired with Rogue ST-100/RP1 and ST-100/RP5 combos and then upgraded to Pass XA30.8 with XP12 preamp. While the Rogue gear sounded good, the Pass combo took it to another level. Rogue sounded a but dry.
I heard the 11As several times and they sounded warmer to me than the Montis.
I would suggest either the Simaudio Moon (360 or 760) or Pass X series amps.
One other suggestion if you want to try it on the cheap is to replace the stock JJ tubes in the RP1 with Brimar CV4003 from Upscale Audio. I found the JJ tubes in the RP1 to be quiet but not very engaging sounding. The Brimars bring out more sparkle and kick up the PRAT.
SEEKING AN AMPLIFIER THAT MATES WELL WITH MARTIN LOGAN 11 A IMPRESSIONS
Room is 18' long by 11 foot wide with 8 foot ceilings and light drapes on order for rear wall. I sit about 10 feet from the speakers.
Current Equipment: 1. Martin Logan 11A 4 feet from rear wall and 16 inches from side wall. Set up by dealer using Anthem to maximize the internal woofers.
2. Cary Audio 306/200 as a transport with Chord Qutest DAC
3. Conrad Johnson tube power amp classic 62 65 watts per channel
which replaced Rogue Audio Atlas Magnum II 100 watts/channel-CJ sounds better.
4. Rogue Audio Preamp RP-1
Not happy with the sound, speakers sound anemic to me. I was thinking that a more powerful amp would bring the speakers to life. I realize that the woofers have a built in 375 watt amp. In short, what amp would work better than my current set up? I'm assuming a better match of amplifier would improve the overall sound.
Thank you.
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You could try the Kinki Studios EX-M1+ It is an SS amp that cumes as close to tube sound as I've found and mates well with Chord DAC. It also has replacable op amps so you can do some "rolling" trying different brands. has plenty of beef to drive the electrostats. I am using it currently on my ancient pair of CLS. Jerry |
@carlsbad2 who sells Kinki Stidios besides AliExpress? Any dealers? It looks interesting. |
The way to buy is directly from KS on their website. https://www.kinki-studio.com/ That is how I bought mine. BTW, the name Kinki is the owner's wife's first name. If you are in Socal you are welcome to listen to mine in my home or even take it home if you want to make 2 trips. It is in my backup system. Thanks, jerry
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Try the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra. @orchardaudio is running an amp tour. You get a week to try it for FREE. Merely pay shipping to the next person on the list. The Absolute Sound did a video using it to drive Magneplanars. Contact Leo at Orchard Audio to join the fun. I’m not associated with OA, but did buy the amp after participating in the tour. It is an amazing amp. Can’t go wrong with a free demo. I haven't heard it with Martin Logan. Unfortunately, my friend passed away before we got to audition my amp with his ML CLS. Thanks, aldnorab |
- 15 posts total