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PrimaLuna EVO 400 v Cary SLI-100

I've never owned anything other than solid state but I am increasingly intrigued with tubes.  Thinking of "investing" $5K or so in an all-tube integrated to (at least initially) drive my Klipsch Heresys.  Any thoughts on these two choices?  Is there another choice in this range?

128x128mattsca
2psyop's avatar
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2psyop
1,679 posts
 

Rogue Audio Dark Integrated (about 100WPC)

I also like any number of Line Magnetic integrated amps. I have the 216i and also have the non dark version of the Rogue (Atlas Magnum III). I have heard another Cary model and for some reason did not connect with the sound. I still think Cary makes fine tube amps. I also heard a Primaluna integrated and felt the same way. I think the key is to find a way to listen to these brands. BTW tubes are intoxicating. You have been warned... (hahah)

grinnell
1,120 posts
 

Decware with those Heresys

 

ghdprentice
7,373 posts
 

A great idea. I slowly moved into tubes over the decades as I upgraded my systems. I wish that I had done it faster.

 

Primaluna will be more neutral and the Cary warmer, more tubelike and musical.

I would recommend listening to an Audio Research I-50 before you buy. Incredibly musical and natural sounding with much more rhythm and pace than the two you are considering or other recommendations. This amp produces music. 

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