I have both the Pathos Classic One v2 and the Sim I5. Both are great amps and I'd hate to part with either. I drive Paradigm Studio 100v2's with the Sim and ProAc Tablettes with the Pathos. I've used them the other way around also. I think the Pathos is slightly better in terms of refinement but the Sim has more drive. Both are great. As good as some very expensive seperates I've owned.
Audio Research VSI-55, Pathos ClassicOne, or SS
Okay, I have prejudice: I like tubes because I'm into tube guitar amps and like the sound and aesthetic.
Now, I'm building up a new system. My current system -- which I'll keep in another room -- has an Audio Research D-100 and SP9 mk II. Great stuff.
I haven't shopped for components in ages...so I'm a bit ignorant as to what's out there.
Out of pure visual appeal, and based on reviews, I'm sore tempted by the Pathos Classic One. Because I'm a long-time AR user, I'm also interested in the VSI-55. On the solid state side, I'm thinking about the Sim Moon I-5 and a simpler, less expensive Musical Fidelity X-150 (which has the benefit of a phono stage and opens up more funds for speakers, etc.).
Speakers in mind include Harbeth Compact 7, Dali Helicon 300 or Grand Diva (used) and Proac D15.
Thoughts, comments, ideas???
Now, I'm building up a new system. My current system -- which I'll keep in another room -- has an Audio Research D-100 and SP9 mk II. Great stuff.
I haven't shopped for components in ages...so I'm a bit ignorant as to what's out there.
Out of pure visual appeal, and based on reviews, I'm sore tempted by the Pathos Classic One. Because I'm a long-time AR user, I'm also interested in the VSI-55. On the solid state side, I'm thinking about the Sim Moon I-5 and a simpler, less expensive Musical Fidelity X-150 (which has the benefit of a phono stage and opens up more funds for speakers, etc.).
Speakers in mind include Harbeth Compact 7, Dali Helicon 300 or Grand Diva (used) and Proac D15.
Thoughts, comments, ideas???