2. amps-preamps
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Does one NEED multiple amps?

I saw this quote in a couple of different places, and each time it has got me thinking about its validity, so thought I'd see how many of you buy into it, either in theory, practice or both. Here it is, attributed to Terry Cain of Cain & Cain Audio:

"Start a collection of amps.

No one amp will keep a man happy long term. You need a young, firm perhaps not too articulate one you can swing from the ceiling with. And you always need a detailed and refined lower power one, the one you will never ever sell. This amp carves out the essence of tone and artistic intent, but cannot satisfy animal musical behavoir due to power limitation. With music, you cannot have too much fun. Don't let the amps get in the way. If amp -A- is complaining or not keeping up with your musical energy, just grab another and keep swinging."

Note my emphasis on the word "need" (vs 'want') as indicated in the quote. And who among you have 'just grabbed another'?
kck
aball
2,016 posts
 
I usually have around 3 amplifiers. Each one is suited to a particular type of music - it's an optimization solution.
bdgregory
1,712 posts
 
I have multiple amps (5 currently). I thought it was something I had to do because I was indecisive, compulsive, or had some other mental defect.

I guess this means it's good. Hmm . . . feeling better about myself already :-)
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
I have tube and solid state amps...I think many audiophiles have at least two or more amps around most of the time. I'd be somewhat surprised if they did not.

Dave
drrdiamond
671 posts
 
Be surprised!

I know a lot of audiophiles and except for one guy that is a reviewer, no one has more than the number of amps required to run their system or systems.

I have two big Krell amps, but my speakers are actively biamped requiring a minimum of two amps.

Buy really good amps and you won't need spares.

Richard
lakefrontroad
302 posts
 
I'm with Drrdiamond.

I have just the number of amps I need and sell the rest off.

Of course I do have two extra, about to be returned upgraded and rebuilt Tenor 300 Hybrids, with the warranty, but I'm not counting them.

It's taken two years to get around to having them repaired and back to work. By the time I get them back I hear Tenor may be back in business. Wouldn't that be funny, keeping amps from an out or business manufacturer long enough to have them worth what they should be selling for.

Oh, yeah about the extra amps, I don't have any.
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