2. amps-preamps
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Cary vs Raven

It's about time to replace the 20+ year old Prima Luna.  Based on my limited researches and the positive on Audiogon, I'm leaning toward either a Cary SLI-80HS or CAD-300SEI, and the Raven Blackhawk.  I currently have Forest Totem speakers, but am looking to get some Klipsch Heresy or Fortes.  On paper the SLI-80HS and Blackhawk look pretty similar to me, and I've been intrigued with the 300 B tube.  This is the last amp I will buy, so want to make sure it's the best my budget can manage.  I listen to classical in a small size room (15'x15'x9'), so I don't need a lot of power.   

Anyone out there had a chance to compare these amps?  If so, what is the verdict?  And how about the various upgrades available for each?  Thanks in advance for your advice.

jrcotner
soix
9,772 posts
 

You might consider just adding a couple subs to the Carbons — might be the best of all worlds. Klipsch is very different from Totems or Fritz, but maybe you’re after different?

jrcotner OP
71 posts
 

I got the Fritz speaker to try out at home.  They had nice high and mid range, but not the oomph which I like with the Forests.  I'd rather have a single full-range speaker than satellites and subs.

macg19
961 posts
 

I have not owned Cary but I have owned a Raven Osprey and I’m disappointed that I sold it. Long story. The guy who bought it is really happy though.

Raven’s are really nice amps and their customer service is top notch - very personal.

If you are into tube rolling Dave at Raven sells NOS tubes for his amps as a side biz at very reasonable prices. He has likely the only remaining pre-1970 Shugang 6L6GC tubes that I really liked as well as other great options.

 

macg19
961 posts
 

forgot to mention Raven has a 45 day return policy for a reasonable restocking fee

immatthewj
2,245 posts
 

  I say this based on experience.  I purchased a pair of Joseph Audio Perspectives and learned I probably can’t afford the electronics to fully understand how good the speakers are.

@testrun  , this is not a rhetorical question or a question intended to start an argument, as I believe that the electronics in front of a speaker are important, but what do you think that it would take to get those JAs to live up to their potential?

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