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Help with a tube amp recommendation

Hello All
I am going to give a tube amp a try and I would like some help. I have a Wadia modded 850 and I want to try a tube amp. My speakers are Merlin TSM-M's My chooses are the Manley snappers, the VAC auricle music blocks and the BAT VK-55. I am going to be new at tubes so which one is going to be the most user friendly? I like very detailed sound. Are any of these what I am looking for? Please any suggestions would be great.
Thanks
harnellt
ghangis
3 posts
 
Definitely put the Audio Research VT100MKII on your list. Unbelievable soundstage, detail and slam with the right speakers. Tight defined and deep bass.Some tube amps can sound slow and tubby in the bass. Not this one. Good luck!
jdcrox
119 posts
 
You might want to post this in the speaker forum too, and make sure to put Merlin in the subject, chances are Bobby P will give you some "first-hand" recommendations!
bartokfan
664 posts
 
As to the Audio Research VTL100 Mk2, my friend had a Audio Research VTL 200 MK1, and he agreed my Jadid Orch at less than half the size of his AR amp/pre combo, was superior in resolution, cleaner/less fatigue, to his AR. Of course he had the power to drive the power thirsty Mirage One's, which were too much for the Jadis.
I plan to upgrade to the Cayin A88.
In yrs to come I imagine Jadis will have to drop its prices due to Cayin's superior produts at less than half the price.
cello
645 posts
 
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Harnellt,
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You might want to check out the Berning ZH-270. The Merlins love the Berning ZH-270. I have MSM-MX's with Super Bam paired with the ZH-270 and they sing together.
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The ZH-270 is an incredible value for the money and wonderful with the Merlin MSMs.
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Rgds,
Larry
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xactaudio's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
xactaudio
156 posts
 
If you want all the detail that is recorded to your software, I have to say the Berning ZH-270 is a mighty fine amp when used with Merlins. This amp lets the details come through in a very fast, neutral and unhindered way. The Bernings also are the most friendly tube amps that I am aware of today. Self biasing and very low heat output. The tubes should outlast some of your other gear. These amps do not hide the dynamics that are recorded onto most CD's and records like many tube amps seem to do. Nothing is rolled off top to bottom. They are exceptionlly dynamic and life like. The bass is strong and tight as it should be. The highs and mids will be presented as they are recorded. The Berning will let all of the details be heard in a very pleasing presentation. One other big bonus,it is an absolute bargain in my opinion. I could go on but you get my point.
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