shindo aurieges ....

Speaking only in generalities, many solid state amplifiers do not have a high input impedance. Once again, speaking in generalities, the Shindo Aurieges with an output impedance of 5000 ohms will need careful system matching.

As a rule of thumb, the input impedance should be at least 20x the output impedance of the source component. You can, of course, get a buffer, but that's yet another component which may add its own coloration.

The Leben CS600 versus the Pass INTA30. Given what I know of their house sound I'd say that they're totally different. I think you would be happy with either.

I haven't heard the INTA30, but as I understand, it's based on the X30.5, which I have indeed heard and like very much. Pick one, buy it used, and if you really don't like it, get the Leben later.

For what it's worth, I have an LFD Zero LE MKIV integrated amplifier. It is wonderful. There is one available on Audiogon right now for a great price. I bought mine new and don't regret it.

> I do not understand how or why a number of audiophiles
> prioritize extreme detail and clarity over musicality and tone.

Some prioritize tone and musicality over detail and clarity. Some do it the other way around.

But worse, some want both -- which I think is difficult to achieve and expensive. As if it wasn't expensive enough already.

I believe that if you called John Devore he would give a big thumbs up to tubes and Leben and Shindo in particular.

I have had a few correspondences with Mr. Devore and he definitely loves Shindo but there are other amps that he likes too. I am using shindo apetite with silverbacks and the sound is phenomenal but would be better with some more power. For whatever reason, Shindo seems to be a great fit with Devore speakers.

Mikirob,

I'm not sure if my comments led you to that conclusion, but extreme detail over tone certainly doesn't describe my listening priorities.

The Auriegies is definitely a beautiful piece and I spent many a night seduced by it. Especially when I used to have it paired to my 845 set monos.

That said, some of its lore is hype and there are other pieces with similarly wonderful tone that have greater transparency and pull the listener in without being quite as colored. I like a colored sound for certain listening, but its generally not versatile.

For the record I hate sterile, super transparent audio pile brag rigs.