2. amps-preamps
  3. 1337442980

Preamp possibles for system...

I am currently using a Belles 21A auricap but have been itching to try something else for possible system improvements. The amp is a T-hold S/500 ll with an Arcam CD23 and Polk SDA-2's with RDO-194 tweets. All IC's/PC's are Morrow Level 3/4. My 22'x35' listening environment is slightly harsh with wood floors and a fair amount of glass. Musical taste is quite varied at moderate volumes.

In general, I feel the base or low level frequencies are a bit forward but not crisply defined. Also the high frquencies seem somewhat constrained or maybe rolling off early...using others terminology I have read. Almost as if the singers are behind the band. Not always, but on enough recording's I notice it.

My previous amp was a Nak 7. Everything else staying the same, I recently switched to the T-hold S/500. I literally would have wrote an exact opposit review of the systems traits critiquing it with the Nak. I was certainly surprised...in a VERY good way.

I have read that the T-hold amps liked certain pre's. Here is a list I have gleaned from some research. I have not seen all of these available, so some maybe out of the question. I would be gratefull for any input to try and target my continued refinement.

Sonic Frontiers line 3
Aestetic Calypso
Audio research LS25 mk1 or 2
Modwright 9.0se
Klyne 7

mlo97
mlo97 OP
31 posts
 
Thanks Unsound...Good possibility. I assume you base that on me mentioning how bright or harsh some of the rooms large material surfaces are. The low frequencies negative affects on "everything" I know are real. It definately sound better at low to moderate volume levels.

Putting the systems performance aside, I do not feel the Belles is a good match. The gain is obviously quite high as I rarely am above 9:00 o'clock on the volume and very loud is often near 10:00 o'clock. Makes for difficult fine tuning. It also is Black and I want something more closely matching the other components...nitpicky I know.

I am noticing a tweeter issue on one of the Dunlavy's. I am hoping I can find a worthy replacement. The more I am working my way through my music collection the more impressed I am.
mlo97 OP
31 posts
 
Well I did some more testing with impromptu room treatments and speaker placement. My conclusion is that on low volumes the bass seems to be fairly controlled. As the volume goes up the low frequencies start/can get muddy, for lack of a better term. I am really itching to compare the Belles directly against another pre. It is either that or start purchasing tubes for trials though aesthetically the piece is also off.

The Cantata's tweeters were replaced with ScanSpeak D2606/9220. Madisound recomended them as direct replacements for the original Vifa D27TG-35. They are made in Denmark and were exact copies. I am quite happy with thier sound even being fresh.
tango_tilingo
47 posts
 
I, was happy with my system, but I decide to upgrade my Pre amp, I went from the Cary SLP 98 to

what I consider one of best tube Pre amp the SLP 05, please go to you nearest dealer and give it a try

you would never regret, it please let me know

what you think and good luck on you search.
mlo97 OP
31 posts
 
I am waiting for a pair of the Amperex Hollands to be delivered Bigshutterbug recomended. With a budget of near 3K I have not seen much used activity for anything on my shortlist. I will try to search out a listen on the Cary SLP-05...Thanks Tango.
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