High Current SS amps with input impedance = 200K

I once thought I was in love with ARC D400, at least on specs. . . until I heard it. . . and my ears started to 'bleed'. Am I ever glad I did not buy it without auditioning!G.

Interesting reading. Several of us made this mistake when starting. This is an excellent lessons learned for new audiophiles. Why don't A'gon create a lessons learned folder entitled "Audiophile 101". I learnt the expensive way.

I'm currently using a Burson AB-160 buffer between my McCormack DNA-500 amp and VTL preamp. I'm waiting for it and associated cables to break in and sonics to stabilize. I'll report back with developments after it gets some significant hours on it.

Foster,

Yes, it will be interesting what that device might do in your case. On paper, the VTL and McCormack appear to be a pretty good match. The DNA 500 is the only other (non Class D) 500w/ch amp that I have considered to-date.

I think there is more than just a calculated drop of output in the bass frequencies. 0.4db would be difficult to hear especially at 20Hz.

My SS amps have input imped of 67K ohms. I have used a few tube preamp that has specified output imped of 100ohm to 600ohm (may be higher in the bass freq.) Subjectively, there is tighter coupling betw the pre with the lowerest output imped and the amp. I hear better transient attack in the mids and tighter bass. In some ways, it is similar to changing the load imped on cartridges.

I suspect that there is also interaction in the time domain and/or dampening.

I am pretty confuse myself. Any help is appreciated.