Cary, Cayin or Primaluna EL34 for Merlin VSM-MME

I think you'd do well to try to audition a Manley Stingray integrated. I think that you could find one used close to your price range.

I second the Stingray recommendation for Merlins. But EL34 in general is the way I would go rather than 6550/KT88 - at least with the VSMs, and I would think the TSMs as well, but I would discuss it with Bobby P (Mr. Merlin) - he knows his speaker well.

Primaluna has the advantage of continuous autobias. There's no need to ever bias the power tubes, match tubes, or wonder if you're getting the best out of your amp.

The power tubes are always running in their sweet spot so they should last longer as well.

Autobias is really nice, but best sound is better. Not saying the Cayin's don't sound better, but just priority. I notice that some of the very expensive tube amps, let's say CAT JL2/3s don't use autobias, and if I know Ken, it has something to do with best performance - but I do appreciate the feeling of knowing the bias is being managed, on the other hand, setting bias manually and seeing it stay there has its own satisfactions.

I have the Cayin and am very impresed in the sound for the price. Clean and clear, resolving, holographic image, emotial impact, natural - albeit it not eternal but natural decay and great soundstage and placement of instruments). I guess I should check bias soon but over a year (PC system so light use) it still sounds spot on. Anyone know of probes that fit the Cayin A50T? I have stock probes on my Simpson VOM and they are too short (standard length-the Cayin needs something different). I have beem twisting silver paper clips around the probes to get the extension but willing to pay some bucks to get something that I don't need to jerryrig.