2. amps-preamps
  3. 1168519830

amps for Merlin VSM-MXE

sorry i posted this by mistake in the speakers thread so reposting here...taking delivery of new MXE speakers soon and wondered what would be peoples choice of amp. I heard the new speakers work also well with SS, although my choice has always been tubes.

Given the rise of low cost/high quality components in recent years can someone provide me with a solution for $6k?

I have had the berning and it worked well...just looking for options!
enjoy_the_music
enjoy_the_music OP
39 posts
 
Cheers Monk...yep it seems to be that the CAT and Joule amps are the preamplifiers of choice. Unless you go for Kondo?

I never heard the Blue Circle equipment, its very rare in Europe and maybe difficult to find on the used market at 230V!

But still i'll have a search. Many thanks for your input!
ryle2029050
1 posts
 
I´ve owned previously Joule LA150/VZN100 combo and Berning ZH270 with my VSM-MX and right now my amp it´s the Ars Sonum Filarmonia SE and I´m EXTREMELY happy with it.
wstam
8 posts
 
Good to read the comment on Ars Sonum Filarmonia amp. I was actually expecting someone to mention it in this and the other threads sooner ;-) I am still waiting for mine to drive my VSM-MX.

Tks for sharing...
enjoy_the_music OP
39 posts
 
But do you think the ARS is as good as a full Joule or CAT system?

Or 95%?

I thought about the ARS too.
martykl
3,578 posts
 
As I've noted on a few other threads - I really like the VSM SE with Cary 300B monos. You can't get really high spls in a medium/large room and deepest bass may be MIA... but the combo is magic dynamically and timbrally. Vocal reproduction is startlingly good. I understand that later versions of the VSM may be less SET friendly.

Marty
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