2. amps-preamps
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Jolida 302B/502B?

Hi,

I've recently decided to get into tube sound and have been told that Jolida is the way to go for a 2500 dollar system.

I am purchasing Spendor 3/5 (or 3/1) speakers when I find a good deal on them. I have tested them (with the 302B) and really like the airy midrange and smooth sound. I listen to classical, classic rock, and eclectic rock (less bass, more vocals). All of which I tested with this setup.

Now my question is: which amp would be better for my situation both musically and financially? Should I try and purchase one which is modded or not?

Also, I am looking at CD players and have been looking formost at the Jolida 100A. Is it worth it to buy the upgraded version? Why do people say you have to have the power supply replaced professionally?

I have pretty much decided on anticables for the speaker connection, but what would you recommend for interconnects?

I appreciate your help in advance.
jclarka
ethanh
48 posts
 
The 302 and 502 use different power tubes (EL34 for the 302 and KT88/6550 I believe for the 502). Considering this if vocals are more important to you than bass the 302 ought to be a no brainer (the EL34 is typically considered the best non-SET midrange tube out there).
This said though you may want to take a look at the Prima Luna Prologue One or Two. The Prima Lunas have an auto bias feature and higher build quality than the 302 (all point to point handwiring as opposed to circuit boards for the Jolida, plus the Two can accept EL34, KT88, and 6550 type tubes). They're more expensive but may be worth it considering the higher quality. I just bought a tube integrated so I've been researching amps in this price range for the past two months.
jclarka OP
3 posts
 
Thanks so much for the responses thus far. You have been very helpful.

One thing that I forgot to mention: I am in a 10x10 room which is well carpeted. Should I get a sub? If so which one and how should I integrate it into the system? I don't even own a TV and have not watched one for years, so it will never be used for HT.

Thanks.
ethanh
48 posts
 
I wouldn't rush on the sub. You can always see how it sounds without it and then decide.
I thought I was going to need one when I got my Cayin but now I honestly don't even feel like I'm missing all that much. I'd still like to try a really nice sub in my system one of these days but I can definitely live with what I have.
As far as connecting a sub goes there are a few ways. Some amps like my Cayin or most Antique Sound Labs models have RCA sub outs built into them (I believe the Jolida and Prima Lunas do not). If not you can just use speaker level inputs. You run an additional speaker line from the taps on your amplifier to the subwoofer's line level inputs (this doesn't affect your amp by drawing wattage or anything like that). A lot of quality subwoofers like REL or whatever have speaker level inputs so I don't think you should have any problems.
restock
831 posts
 
I used to run a Jolida 302b with Spendor S3/5: a match made in heaven. I also would suggest the 302b rather than the 502b. The 302b is supposed to have a much nicer midrange than the 502b, while the 502b has much better control in the bass, which won't matter as much for small speakers like the S3/5. In fact, the slightly fuller and rounder bass adds a little low end to the little Spendors. I never even thought about getting a sub and certainly did not miss one.

The Anticables are a good choice as well: If you would like to achieve some more top end extension in that setup, you can try twisting the Anticables rather than well separated parallel runs.

Enjoy!

Rene
patrickachs
16 posts
 
I too, have the 302B along with the JD-100...I currently am running a pair of PSB Silvers with them and have just recently purchased a pair of Acoustic Zen Reference Matrix IC's...I just absolutely love the sound!! very detailed and involving...great synergy! I have them in a 16 X 22 room and believe me....the 302 has plenty of power! I don't really have any experience with any heavily modded units...the only mods I have done is some tube rolling and power cords....believe me you will notice a huge difference with a good PC...I have absolutely no interest in getting a sub for my system because there is plenty of bass....good luck!
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