2. amps-preamps
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Looking for input on an amplifier switch

Greetings! Long time listener, first time caller. 

My current system is comprised of:

Sonus Faber Olympica Nova 5s

Krell FBP 300cx

2 dedicated 20 amp circuits. 

McIntosh C12000 Pre amplifer
Clearaudio Performance DC turntable with a SoundSmith Voice cartridge

PS Audo Perfectwave MKII DAC with a Auralic Aries G2.2 streamer

The more I delve into reference tube gear, the more I find myself drawn to it. I am considering swapping out the Krell FPB300cx (it has been rebuilt by krell and is in mint condition). I find it very nice in the upper detail but lacking in the mids and at lower volumes. Its  very clean but not as engaging as I would like.I have to turn it up to hear the fullness Im looking for.  Im more a full body detail guy and find sibalince frustrating. Therefore, I don’t like Bowers and Wilkins, etc. 

Im considering swapping with a mint set of used Audio Research 250 SE monoblocks. Has anyone made the switch from SS to ARC amps and what was your experience? Does anyone own the ARC 250 monoblocks. How do you like them? 

apuchle
soix
10,359 posts
 

These Clayton Class A amps are well worth a look and quite a lot of amp for the $$$.  All reviews of Clayton amps are stellar, and these may do just what you’re looking for without having to deal with tubes.  They don’t sell new amps anymore, but I believe the owner/designer still services them out of Missouri.  Best of luck.

https://tmraudio.com/fresh-arrivals/clayton-audio-m300-monoblock-power-amplifiers-pair/

 

ghdprentice
8,119 posts
 

I recently listened to Sonus Faber Speakers (Lillium) with Burmeister equipment. Absolutely astonishing imaging... literally behind the walls, to the ceiling and great depth behind the speakers. A true sonic spectacular. Of the high end Roland / Wilson camp. I cannot believe anyone would not be blown away by it. On the other hand, not remotely something I want in my house. Not musical and natural sounding. This is why auditioning is so important. You want to get equipment that takes you to the place you want to go. 

apuchle OP
2 posts
 

While auditioning is obvious, in cities where HiFi stores barely exist, its difficult. But, I took a chance and purchased the Audio Reference Ref250SE set I was looking at, and I couldn't be happier. 

While the krell had great punch and detail at the top end, the sound is now more balanced, rich and pleasurable. With the krell, I felt I was showing off a stereo that was somewhat sibilant at the top end and fatiguing at times. With the ARC, I just want to enjoy every song. I no longer am looking for songs that "sound good". 

I have zero doubt that Burmeister is better than what I have, but at 2 and even 3 times the price of what I have, its just not something I can do and stay married. 

@ghdprentice I think your assessment is spot on with my likes. I feel the same way after listening. Yes I have to deal with tubes, but its a hobby and maintenance is part of the fun. 

I appreciate all your responses and input. Thank you for providing them. 

soix
10,359 posts
 

Nice amp.  Congrats!

ghdprentice
8,119 posts
 

OP "...With the ARC, I just want to enjoy every song. I no longer am looking for songs that "sound good". 

+1 Exactly! Precisely. One wants to listen to the music, not the system. 

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