Best amplifier for CLX

Hi Andrew,
Agree that to optimize full range ESL best is still to use high power tube amps..
Back in '80s, was pretty pleased driving my CLSsI & II with VTL300+Ultimate and/or
ARC Classic150+SP11. A buddy now has CLX augmented by a pair of Descent subs,
similarly, he too could not be fully satisfied by just about any SS amps he tried them
with--always finding the resultant a tad lean-ish--perhaps an inherent character of
CLXs?

Soulution700 is one SS which will control panels of your CLXs with an iron grip,
energizing to make them fuller sounding no doubt. But IMO, the Accuphase A200 is
timbre-ly more refined, pure and natural--not quite as obviously powerful in the bass,
but more articulate and goes just as deep, or almost compared to 700, but is deeper
than that of the stereo 710.

Since you currently already own an almost full Accuphase system, why not top it off
with A200 which will probably make best synergy? If thinking tube route, I'd look into
something like the Jadis which is largely known for its brute power, finesse whilst
being fuller sounding than most. Perhaps big VTL Siegfred or ARC Ref750 could make
good candidates as well, but too much heat and tubes, IMO.. ;)

Also for your room size, you probably do need a pair of Descent subs to aid pressurize room and give proper foundations to most music. This will also help in making the sound fuller, as well denser.

Similar to my findings of old CLS as well as friend's CLX, although providing utmost transparency, they could sound a tad lean-ish from lower midrange on down. Hence my recommendations above are for amps be it SS or tube which give that extra weight /fullness in that region in an effort to make them sounding more fulsome and linearly balanced.

I found for SS, Soulution 710/700 to be particularly strong in that region--full lower mid, strong driving mid bass, powerful controlled lows (slight boost there, whereas Accuphase are more linear in that area), However, important to use right cabling, otherwise could be as often commonly perceived - being a tad dry/cool/soul-less etc. I found KS Elation quite a good match, but Siltech brought out the best--infusing some organic quality into them.

For tube amps, my recommendation ~ Jadis JA200, ARC REF250, VAC S450, VTL MB450 III being the minimum to handle CLXs properly and do them justice. Goodluck.

George,
I don't think his C3800 would have caused any glare.. It is a top-notch pre.
On the contrary, it should provide some of the nice needed 'cushioning' as opposed to
CDP/DAC going direct. I'd check into AC quality and cabling perhaps--powercords into
those MLs make big difference too.

Andrew,
I presumed, you are using an Accuphase DG to measure? Can't it being a room correcting
device compensate that suck-out/hollowness you are experiencing? What source and
amp are you currently using?

"So have you heard accuphase or Soulution with CLX ?"

Yes, my Soulution710, AccuphaseA200 and FMA 611 were lugged to friend's place to do testings with his CLXs. He personally own FMA 115, and have tested Soulution700 and Technical Brain amongst others at his place too.