Generally I agree with Kosst that solid state gear is likely to pair better with Focal’s based on the impedance load/curve of most their speakers. Couldn’t find a published curve for the Aria 948, but with a minimum of 2.5 ohms the tubes are likely to be working hard. I think the Rogue will be enough to drive them well. I drive my Focal Electra 1007 Be speakers with a 100 watt Audio Research SS amp with great bass extension without need for a subwoofer in a small - medium room.
beginner seperate system
all the listening I do leads to crazy high prices. anyone out there that can do great high fi on a couple grand budget? I have nad 275bee bridged mono with focal aria 948. I would like to experiment with maybe a tube setup or a really reverby ss if exists. I have a couple rythmik 15 in subs that can do bass. have a few headphone systems that really have opened my eyes on sound. can hifi wonky/tubes be done with subs? and lowest entry point worth the money? would be great to find something under 5k that can play well with aria speakers.
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i think Im good with my nad amps bridged for ss...the website says over 1200 watts bridged....https://nadelectronics.com/product/c-275bee-stereo-power-amplifier/ but I do want to try tubes. i see some great suggestions, just wrestling with my budget. I dont know/understand alot of the terminology or names in tubes...so Im googling all the suggestions. I appreciate them as I am learning as I go. all good stuff. |
If you want to experiment with tubes using your current system — as suggested by many above— you will get a good taste with a tube preamp. Depending on how much you want to spend, three good choices to purchase NEW would be the Schiit Freya ($700), Brown Audio SP-1B ($1150, which includes an excellent moving magnet phonostage), and the Atma-sphere UV-1 ($1900). All American made, and well reviewed. Based on your investiture in the Aria 948, I would probably lean towards the Atma-sphere UV-1, and give thought later perhaps to a different solid state amp. If you are willing to consider used gear, would recommend looking at Audio Research offerings on Audiogon. |
One last thought. I myself have been looking at a tube preamp for my second system in my den ... and while a custom tube preamp from Don Sachs has been in my eyesights, I’m a little concerned about the longevity of a boutique company. How long will he be around to service it if something goes wrong? Not to hijack the thread, but does anyone else have this concern? |
Hi Austin_Jeff, There are a lot of great suggestions here. IMHO If looking for the best sound for the budget you have - with the equipment you have... I would take Wolf_Garcia's suggestion and hook up the Schitt Freya to your existing NAD 275bee . Freya is by far the best bang for you buck as it has several options and respectable specs. As you get comfortable with the set up you can roll NOS tubes and get a real sense of the tube feel. The least expensive and best way to maximize your investment in the Focal Aria 948s is to take Larry5729's suggestion on upgrading your subs to the REL S3. REL is known for their quick, seamless ,musical sub bass system with the Neutrik SpeakOn connectors. However Its only worth the investment with the connectors. I believe Analysis Plus makes The REL Cables on request. - if you decide to go this route request bananas connectors for the binding posts on the amp end. It will be easier to hook up. Schitt Audio - $699 http://www.schiit.com/products/freya REL - $2,400 https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis99dcj-rel-acoustics-s-3-pair-available-subwoofers REL Cables - $ 240/$500 https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis990j9-signal-cable-inc-double-run-spk-rel-speakon-cable-subwoof... https://www.analysis-plus.com/pro-audio/#custom_built_cables With about $1,500 to spare I would invest in a couple to decent power chords to maximize the performance of the NAD 275bee and Schitt Freya I think you will be extremely pleased with the results. What ever you decide, enjoy! |
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