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Cary v12 vs. Vac 80/80 vs. Music Reference RM-9

Seeking sonic comparisons between these three amps, one of which I'm considering buying used. My priorities are a rich, textured midrange, smooth treble (allergic to brightness), not too forward sounding, and given the first three, soundstaging. Bass is not a huge priority. My system is a Primare CD31 player, CJ Premier 10 pre, and Snell Type A speakers. I'm not about accuracy since many recordings are less than ideal. Looking for realism and richness/emotion of the music.

Does triode operation give that goosebumps midrange like no other? Or is it all about execution? Can an older RM-9 compete with the Cary and VAC?
Thanks in advance for any thoughts!
montaldo

Showing 1 response by shakeydeal

shakeydeal
979 posts
 
I have not heard the Cary, but have heard the other two. The RM9 is so much better than the VAC, it's almost funny. While I agree with Clio somewhat about the neutrality of the MR, when used with EL34s, it does have that midrange magic you seek. The VAC reminded me of SS, and not the (few) good SS amps out there.

RM9 gets my vote.

Shakey
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