2. amps-preamps
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Pre + Amplifier Recommendation

Hello All,

First let me say I have spent countless hours researching what may or may not be the right combo for me and my listening preferences - the reality is that there are so many options I am likely more confused now than before, though not from a lack of effort.

So, I have Dali Helicon 400's and listen primarily to rock / folk indie primarily, but do listen to most genres. I have a Cary SLI-80 with upgraded tubes and it sounds great, but lacks a bit of power when i want to turn it up and i am wondering if in addition to increased power i could move up the food chain a bit and get something even better, so long as better is not in the five digits.

I prefer tube sound to any solid state I've owned or heard to date, and my primary concern is being engaged in the music not hearing every last detail, thought that is neat as well.

Was thinking maybe a set of used Cary 805AE units, but fear they may not have enough power. VAC ? BAT ? Quicksilver ? Coincident ?

Or should I start over with new speakers as well? Daedalus Argos look pretty cool and are seemingly more efficient, may open up the options on amplification?

Look forward to your suggestions and thanks in advance.
juggernaut850
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,656 posts
 
Schubert, you might check with the manufacturer to see if removing and installing tubes while the unit is on is a problem. With our preamps, as long as you take certain precautions, its easily done. But I can imagine not all preamps are like that.

But listening to tubes is the best way to grade them, however tedious.

You might also check with the manufacturer to see if there are particular tubes that contribute more to noise. You may not have to be swapping all 8 of them to sort it out!
sc53
718 posts
 
I would look for an Ayre integrated amp and keep the speakers. The AX-7 or AX-7e is a fantastic sounding amp and I'll bet it would be a good match with your speakers.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"10-15-14: Juggernaut850

I completly understand the comments of using my own ears, and appreciate how something like audio can bring about two completely polar opposite opinions on the same subject since this is such a qualitative hobby. That said I value the opinions of those who have been down the road before in hopes of saving me a few miles of detours on my path.

Appreciate the responses guys.

Maybe speakers will be the next move..."

I understand that you want to get some opinions to point you in the right direction. Your approach, I think, is a little too vague and open ended. Now you are thinking about speakers. Asking this way, the only thing you'll get is a list of favorites, many of which will be polar opposites. What don't you like about your current speakers and where do you need to improve? What types of speakers don't you like? Is there a speaker you do like very much but its out of your price range? If so, maybe we can suggest a similar, less expensive, alternative.

The better the info you supply, the better the recommendations will be.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
My experience with a lot of people that listen to low watt tubes with high sensitive speakers is that most don't turn it up very loud. In fact they listen at a very low level a lot of the time. This is not me. And I would love to hear some examples of gear that I need to listen to that would make me switch from my beloved Dynaudios and a McIntosh SS Amp! This system with a Modwright pre amp is capable of conveying tonal beauty, huge soundstage, effortless highs, gorgeous midrange did I mention TONE O yeah I did, and a rhythmic drive and quickness that rocks the house whenever I want with tuneful solid bass. I don't have uber bucks spent and I always look for a good deal when it comes to equipment, but like anything you love you don't mind spending $$ on it. At the end of the day its about listening to music and being happy with what your hearing. Not all this gear stuff!......RIGHT? ...lol
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,238 posts
 
I don't think it's a competition between system types and who's approach is better. Rather people can hear the same sound presentation and have vastly different opinions. I don't know who in particular are the low power amp guys referenced, but I imagine listening levels vary amongst them as any other group. Listening loud is just one's personal choice and to do as often as they feel necessary. Some systems need to blast or crank it up to sound their best and some don't (sound superb at moderate SPL). Really it is truly choice and why we're satisfied with our individual routes to Rome.
Charles,
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