System synergy is a key issue in any system, much more with Atmasphere units. I have owned an MA1 and MA2 years ago - mk1 preamp and mk2 amps, not the current units. At that time I tried several preamps (cj ART2, ARC ref 2, ACT2) with the MA2, mainly because I wanted a remote, but never found a preamp which could be a better match to the MA2. Later I had to sell the Ma2 because I was offered a too good deal with an incompatible speaker and heat and space were a concern at that time.
Now I have a Dartzeel combo, and have tried several amps with the preamp, as I need more power for my preferred speakers (Soundlab A1 PXs), but for chamber music and jazz every time I prefer the Dartzeel preamp with its amplifier. The NH18NS is an excellent preamplifier, but the combo of both units used with the 50 ohm cables is the real deal!
Now I have a Dartzeel combo, and have tried several amps with the preamp, as I need more power for my preferred speakers (Soundlab A1 PXs), but for chamber music and jazz every time I prefer the Dartzeel preamp with its amplifier. The NH18NS is an excellent preamplifier, but the combo of both units used with the 50 ohm cables is the real deal!