Amp choice for Harbeth (SHL5)


Hi,
I recently purchased the SHL5s. I would like to know what kind of amp you are using with them. 

I am NOT looking for an integrated amp although I know LFD and few other integrated amps are recommended. The only reason is I recently purchased an passive pre.

In this short time having them, what I found out although SHL5 plays good with all the amps/different wattage I have tried (Class D & T, older SS Marantz), they are better with 100wpc plus amp. To me they want that reserved power. 

I would like to take these superp speakers to another level with "that" amp. 

I have never owned tube amps. I would like to try maybe the VAC PA100/100 (can't afford newer models) or something in this $1500 price range but not less than 80wpc in 8 ohms. I am little scared of using/dealing with tubes but don't want to hide anymore. 

Please share your amp suggestions with me. 

Thanks. 


celo

Showing 1 response by ljgm

At the LA audio show last weekend, the room with Harbeth SHL5+ driven by Naim amplification sounded great. Definitely on the euphonic warm side of life, but so smooth, great depth, imaging and layering. Probably not perfect in the technicalities, but I didn’t care. Truly a sound that just makes you enjoy the music.

Aside from that, I must say the Pranafidelity amp with the Class D Ncore modules in Steve Norber’s suite at the show was a winner. Although he was driving his own Pranafidelity speakers (which I liked better than the Harbeth), I can imagine the amp performing very well with Harbeths and producing a still smooth but more neutral final sound.

PS someone mentioned the Vinnie Rossi, and I heard that as well at the show.  Although the speakers in that suite were very meh, it was clear to me that the amp unit was very much worth a second listen.