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Merlin VSM and SETs?

I would like to hear from those that have tried an SET (integrated or amp)with the Merlin VSMs. What do you think? If you prefered the SET, what were you comparing it to. I have an Ars Sonum integrated and CAT JL2 amp, and am wondering if an SET will provide a worthwhile option, and if so, in what way.
pubul57
georgemg
69 posts
 
I used Merlin VSM mxe with audiopax 98(SET 30watts), fantastic medium and pristin high, but when I changed toaudio aero capitole PP 55 watts classe A, the sound became most robust , the bass controled and fast, I think melins likes 50 watts or high.
pubul57 OP
3,712 posts
 
Canadiandog, are the Wytechs PP? Or dual output tubes? That is a lot of power for 300B

Snx, did you prefer the Joules?

Goergemg, that is the concern. You had pretty powerful SET, but ultimately seem to have preferred the 50 watt PP.

This makes me think that the CAT JL2 with 100 Watt Class A Triode, and the Ars Sonum which is mostly Class A and 30 Watts might not be improved upon with SET on the Merlins; without some sacrifice. I would make the move if the there was a signficant improvement in dimensionality without the cautious sense that I would be missing out on the full spectrum bass to highs.

The Art Audio Carissa and Jota have been recommended, but I'm not yet convinced they would offer something better than what I have. The other direction would be an Atmasphere MA-60 or Joule VZN80. But that is another kettle of fish.
tabl10s's avatar
tabl10s
1,077 posts
 
I think that Bobby once wrote that he uses low power@home...try a search of the archives.
bobbyapalkovic
729 posts
 
a clue, wattage is less important than the actual sound/tonal balance and bandwidth of the amp in question.
at 22 watts in pure class a, the fila flys!
so it is not that.
and georges amps are class a, another clue?
:-)
best,
b
sns
3,229 posts
 
Pabul, I can't compare the Joule amps directly to the Carissa as I didn't use the Joules in my system. I can say I prefer the Carissa in my setup to the Joules in the systems I've heard, I suspect my fully treated room had much to do with this. I much preferred the dimensionality, holographic presentation over the mostly untreated rooms of the Joule systems.
I can't imagine you would have any bass issues with the Joule LA 150, I use the Joule LA100MK.III and bass is just fine for me.
You will only know if an SET is better for you by trying it in your system, I can guarantee it will sound different than any push/pull or OTL amp.
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