Integrated amp for my Sonus Faber Guarneri

here we go: http://audio-database.com/ACUSTIK-LAB/speaker/stella-novus-e.html

when googling for it, you even find a us-dealer charging 12K for it. Highend pricing is variable as fuel ;-)

Hi DILE,

For $5K, you should be able to get a s/hand ARC Ref 3...very, very good. Single-ended and balanced.

I cannot comment on BAT v MC as i am not familiar with Mc sound. If you wish to stick with tubes, i do not think many people could strongly disagree...it is a solid decision with the right tube amp. And both brands have good reputations.

Onemug's suggestion is a good one...getting your feedback will be helpful as you audition.

As for CAT, i have heard these are excellent. i (think) CAT is a company where one needs to watch maintenance and care a bit. double-check this...i could be wrong, but i thought there were some posts here about that. nothing major, just that it requires a little more hands-on maintenance from the owner than some other brands?

do you have access to Audio Research? AGain, try a s/hand ARC Ref 3. there are a couple on AGon. good luck!

Lloydelee21, I think what you say about CAT may apply to the amps, which are a little 'hands on'. However, I have not had any issues with my preamp over the many years that I have owned it, except to change tubes. I also think your suggestion of a ARC ref3 is a good one. Although, I would add that buying used, the standard caveats apply to all used gear, not just CAT.
IMHO, IF DILE could listen to the piece he is planning on Buying first that would be FAR more preferable. Even if the listening session has to be at the Dealer/Seller.

Hi Daveyf,

thanks for the clarification. I agree on your last point as well. I have never bought blind before...even if i have had to go through contortion to listen to something. but it has been worth it in a couple cases where something i was "sure" i was going to buy ended up being something i respected, but ultimately did not love the way i thought i might.

The good news for DILE is that he seems willing to go through some level of contortion and effort...and like in his GH adventure...is likely to be well rewarded for it.

Daveyf,Onemug,Egidius,Lloydelee21, I've been reading and greatly appreciating all your posts, but something's come-up and everything's on hold for me right now in terms of listening, etc. I have been researching online every item you've all put forth. I'll keep you all posted, and please keep the recommendations, tips, and debate coming. I'm sure this is all extremely valuable information to whomever else is out there reading this thread.

Egidius - Wow! That's a huge and funky-looking sub. I put my name on a list for a listen at the shop in case one comes up someday.

Lloydelee21 - Yes, I have found some old ARC preamps here. Are they all generally good, or mainly the Reference III? How about an oldie like SP-3A-1?

Onemug, Daveyf - Home trials of anything cost 10% the price of whatever eqpt from the one shop in town (but that means keep it for 30 days), so I have to try things in the shop until I narrow them down to one or two items. Any tips on how best to listen-test a pre-amp? Things to listen for? Testing techniques, etc.?