Help on purchasing a used high high end system


Audiophile Gurus… I need your help.

Someone is selling his audio system which consists of:

1 pair Sonus Faber Electra Amator for mids and high
1 pair KEF (old model) for the bass
1 pair of unknown tweeters for highs
6 tube Classe if I am not mistaken monoblock amps powering the mids and high speakers
1 Mark Levinson 200 watt ss amp for the KEF
1 active cross-over
2 Linn pre-amps for the left and right
1 Wadia CD player

I am a novice who’s system consists of a Rotel pre-amp, amp, Rotel source and straight to B&W speakers so buying this system is scaring me. However, the guy is on the verge of bankruptcy and I might be able to get a good deal for some units.

Right now I am planning to get the Sonus Amator speakers, and a pair of tube amps and the pre for it (bedroom system). Might also get another pair of tube amps and the pre for my B&W 803’s (which I already own). Of course the cables and interconnects. And maybe the Wadia top mount CD player too

My question is… what is the difference between an active and a passive system? Can I get the items I said above without the active crossover and just drive them using the pre and the amp or is it a totally different system. I heard the seller mentioning that he cut out the cross-overs from the speakers. What does that mean. Please enlighten me.

I am planning to buy the items I mentioned above for say $8,000 is that a good price?

BTW - this system is in the Philippines so I am the only buyer hehehe since I live here
tinmanad14

Showing 1 response by timo

I would NEVER purchase a complete audio system without listening to it and inspecting it first!