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Odyssey Audio Kismet Mono Blocks

So, I've been eyeballing some local used Kismet monos.  Currently using my Hegel H360 integrated (usually) to power Maggie LRS (also in rotation Snell type D and VA Bach Grands).  Sounds pretty good to my ears, but I've always been wanting to try monoblocks.  I figure Odyssey might be a good place to start as any.  I like what Klaus is doing.  Seems like great bang for the buck.  His room was one of my favs at Axpona also.  

Anybody happen to have any experience comparing Odyssey to Hegel?  Or just impressions of Kismet monos in general?  How about using monos on Maggies?  I'd love to just buy 'em and do a shootout but that won't be happening.   

Thanks  

pkatsuleas
odysseyaudio
13 posts
 

Yes,  my bad..........sensitivity is middle of the road...around 1 V. 

 

As for my comments,  I honestly don't remember that part,  BUT  that wouldn't be a surprise,  just par for the course...if anything,  I'd probably meant you running the same setup for so long in this ever changing hobby

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,487 posts
 

Thanks for the clarification!

soix
8,779 posts
 

I’d first focus on what sonic improvements you’d like to achieve and start with that before worrying about amp configuration.  If you share that you’ll get much better thoughts/recommendations here.  Just my $0.02 FWIW. 

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,842 posts
 

don’t underestimate the benefits of a VERY short set of speaker wires made possible by monoblocks……..

pkatsuleas OP
248 posts
 

@soix 

That is always a great question isn't it.  I enjoy imaging and soundstaging overall I think.  Instrument separation and air/space always puts a smile on my face.  That's probably why I prefer tubes.  My Rogue tube amp/pre combo is the best at it in my room.  My room treatments really helped in this respect also. A smooth presentation a must for me as well.  Can't handle etched or overly detailed systems.  If I could afford some high powered tube amps I'd probably go that route.  

But, the 100 watt Rogue does run out of steam just a bit early with the Maggies. So, I'm thinking some ss monos with good power and a tube pre.  Plus, I've been in this game off and on for a long time but don't have a lot of experience with different configurations.  So, why not try mono amplification?  

As an aside from an earlier McCormack thread of yours, I put my DNA .5 in the system a couple of months back and it's still going strong.  Sounds great!  Fingers crossed!   

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