In need of amp upgrade suggestions


Interested in upgrading from our Simaudio Moon W-5/P-5 amp/pre power plant of 9 yrs.  Have always enjoyed the authority of the W-5, and would like to find something that really excels in low amplitude transient clarity, frequency balance, and can throw an exceptional soundstage.  Digital source is pretty hi-rez (Esoteric K-03), and cabling is on par as well (all JPS Aluminata).  Speakers are strong in efficiency (Daedalus Athena) at around 95db.  Recently auditioned a pr of Pass xa60.8's, but frankly thought the W-5 did a better presentation, less soundstage (I know, sounds crazy, but that's the way I hear it).  Open to push/pull, SET, or ss, but I suspect ss.  Any suggestions?   

mbump

Showing 1 response by melbguy1

Mbump, based on what you’re looking for and your speakers, I would recommend either a Vitus SIA-025 class A integrated, or if you want separates and even more bottom end control, a Vitus RS-100 power amp & RL-101 pre. 

Vitus Audio is made in Denmark in thier state of the art factory. Build quality is excellent. VA gear sounds rich, detailed, open and musical. The SIA-025 is also on the warm side & sounds pure and mellifluous (tube-like). But it also packs a wallop. This amp uses a large efficient 1.4kVa shielded, potted ’floating’ UI-core transformer & would be delivering about 30 watts pure Class A and over 150 watts Class A/B into your 95db Ulysses speakers. Vitus measure power in "true RMS" which is a much tougher measurement, so don’t dismiss the power specs. I was driving a pair of Magico S5’s (88db, 4 ohms with a 2.4ohm dip) with an SIA-025 in a medium size room without an issue.

I would think either option would be a nice upgrade over your Simaudio gear & have good synergy with the rest of your system.