NuForce Reference 8 vs. 9

Hi Bill,

I would say that the NuForce Reference 9 is a pretty neutral sounding amp. The Reference 8 sounds a bit thinner in the lower midrange and upper bass, and lacks bottom end weight and slam (though their bass articulation is excellent. The clarity and imaging of the Reference 9 is also first rate.

The Monarchy SE-160 amps (really the same amps as the SE-250, in mono form) definitely sounded lush and warm compared to the NuForce. Probably the midrange and highs on the Monarchy amp are a little sweeter but not quite as clear and detailed. And the bass control of the Reference 9 is demonstrably superior to the weighty but somewhat less articulate Monarchy amps.

I used my Monarchy SE-160s driving the midrange/tweeter panels of the InnerSound Eros, where they provided a very synergistic match. Using them full range, their lack of bass definition becomes more of a factor, in my view.

I just received the Monarchy M24 tube DAC for review and I can tell you it is a very impressive sounding unit. What I'd probably do is use the M24 to drive the NuForce Reference 9s and have the best of both worlds... You should take a peek on Monarchy's website.

Plato, I have owned the SE160's and now the SE250's. The 250's have much better bass then the 160's. I love the 250's and these Nuforce amps just seem interesting. I think system matching and personal taste will most likely determine which amp is best for me.

I like a sweeter sound with warmth and body. The Monarchy amps do this with outstanding transparency at the same time. Voices are the very best I have heard. Better than Wright Sound 2a3 SET amps driving Cain & Cain IM Ben speakers! My old system.

Based on your comments I think the Monarchy SE250's will stay and someday I may try an A/B comparison with Nuforce on my Dali Grand speakers.

Bill

By the way, I find the P8 to be excellent, in that it is neutral, smooth and transparent. It smoked the Plinius M8 I compared it with by a large margin in my opinion, the M8 being quite electronic hard and grainy sounding. But the P8 is not a tube pre by any stretch. Give me the 'tell it like it is' P8 anytime, but others will want a preamp to do something to the sound.

i am, using the p-8 with my ref-9s driving tyler linbrook signature system speakers, my only tube gear is a ear 934p and at this point i am leaning to the ear over a ps audio gcph, for my ears i cant beat the sound i am getting from my setup, lots of luck with your choice in a preamp,

One thing to take into account is that you can't use a Nuforce amp together with the Gallo sub amp on the second voice coil.