2. amps-preamps
  3. 1218725643

Integrateds: Warm sounding SS vs Hybrid

I have recently had Bryston B60 and Unison Unico amps. They each had their strengths. Overall I liked the Unico better, its more forward, fuller sound and a wider soundstage, due to its tube preamp. However, I wasn't enamored with the tube hiss I was getting, I realize that there might have been a problem with the amp, but I have read about others having this problem. With no music playing, or very quiet passages in classical music, the hiss could be heard from the listening position6-8 feet away.

I have read reviews of some SS amps where their sound is described as "tube-like".

My questions are:

1) Has anyone who had owned tubed gear heard a SS integrated that sounds like tubes?

2) Was my experience with Unison tube hiss likely due to faulty gear/tubes, etc?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
sandman012

Showing 2 responses by mrjstark

mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Mrtennis,
what were your thoughts about Vinnie's new preamp (Isabella)
and amp? And do you remember the speakers that were used with that gear?
Thanks

P.S
I should be getting some new speakers soon (they might not be your cup of tea though). When they come in, I thought you might be interested in hearing them as a part of audio experience.

I will be in touch

Mariusz
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Sounds good. I always wanted to hear Quads.....in audiophile minded setup rather then dealer's with limited imagination.

I am guessing that you haven't heard the new Isabella/dac/headphone amp. Knowing your taste, I think that you would have liked it.......I do.

As to your impression of RWA room at CES, I assume it was in the Rethm Audio room. It was a very simple setup:
* Rethm Saadhana speakers (single driver [Lowther] design with self powered bass module.)
* Consonance reference 2.2 MK II cdp (if I'm not mistaken)
* and RWA Sig.30.2 integrated amp (battery powered. 30wpc).

It is probably not for everyone. IMO it was very good.......far better then some megabucks crap.
Keep in mind that total cost of that setup was about 15K.
I have seen speaker cables costing more......go figure.

Vinnie's amp is not that bad either.....It all depends on what you're going to pair it with. However, it's resolution, dynamics, bass can't equal my own modded Cybers (I own both).

I have heard AMR CD 77 player and IMHO it is one of the best player out there, regardless of price. I am sure that you are going to love it .

Regards
Mariusz
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