2. amps-preamps
  3. 1406317860

Upgrade-itus: Classé DR-9 vs. MF A3.2?


Hello Audiogon and your infinite wisdom.
I have the option to buy a Classé DR-9 to replace my MF A3.2 integrated. The MF IS 185w @ 4 ohms the Classé 200w @ 4 ohms. I'm driving Dynaudio Contour S1.4 monitors.

Thoughts? I'm sure both are good, what will the sound differences be? Dynamics, hi, lo, sound stage, warmth?

For the short term the A3.2 will be pre-amp.
Thanks!
Andy
ucrazykid
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,602 posts
 
The DR 9 is very old and will need servicing just to assure it is up to spec. I owned the amp and it is fine, but dark and not as good as other SS amps that are newer. CJ MF2300a is a better choice if you can find one. Electrocompaniet also makes better sounding amps.

I would not buy the DR9 unless you are handy with electronics or are willing to send to a tech first for a complete go through. Power supply caps will need to be replaced as well as other work.
smp
71 posts
 
The DR 9 in a heartbeat. Have used valves for many years now, but owned a pair of DR9s (with Apogee Mini Grands) for many years and I wish I still had them. They are great amps, even by today's standards , although a quick checkup would be wise as others have recommended.
almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
07-26-14: 5560
If David Reich was still designing an amplifier today, I would be in line to buy one. Come to think about it, anyone know where he is today?
He is the chief engineer at Theta Digital, for which he has worked for the past 16 years.

Regards,
-- Al
ucrazykid's avatar
ucrazykid OP
54 posts
 
The amp underwent a tune (new caps) and firmware upgrade (bais adjustment?) 5 years ago, according to current owner.
frogman
7,497 posts
 
What is the price of the amp?
More to discover