2. amps-preamps
  3. 1148400027

Preamp: AVA T8, Quicksilver, Mapletree 2A SE?

Anyone heard any two, or all three, of these to compare? (The AVA T8 is Van Alstine's Transcendence 8 all-tube pre.) $1100 is my top range. Amp: AVA Fet Valve Ultra 550 - sensitivity 2v or slightly more, input impedance 1M ohms. Spkrs: EgglestonWorks Fontaines - 87dB, 8 ohms (down to 6.5 ohms). Need 3 inputs (unbalanced), 2 outputs (unbalanced), no phono. Please explain your choice. Thank you.
rockadanny
tonyptony
617 posts
 
Rockin', apologies in advance if I've asked you this in a different thread, but by any chance did you own the EXR before upgrading to the Ultra? I have the 550EXR and would love to hear from an owner about how the Ultra sounds in comparison.
rockadanny OP
1,224 posts
 
I ended up ordering a Mapletree Audio Linestage 2A SE (with PS 2 power supply). Hope its a keeper.
rockinrobin
74 posts
 
I have never owned a Van Alstine amp before the Ultra 550. To me, it sounds very neutral without an upper frequency bias. In fact, it is the most liquid, non-fatiguing amp I have ever owned. The low frequencies are both tight and extended. And the abundance of power is amazing! Hope this helps...
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