I see two others have recommended checking out the PS Audio 300 mono's, and I'd agree that they are very much sonic contenders and worth anyone's hearing, but do be aware that they generate a decent amount of heat. My room gets hotter from that pair than it did with a VAC Phi 200 (and sounds better in my system, room, to my tastes, etc.). Also, they do use triode tubes on input, but that is a pretty easy tube usage to manage, nothing like power tubes. I would not hesitate on that account (but I come from the tube end of the spectrum, typically).
Looking for ideas - new mono blocks for stereo music
Hello!
I am on a bit of a mission to upgrade my equipment and just recently purchased the Esoteric K-01X SACD player.
In my case, the primary focus for critical listening is stereo music (aka red book CD) from the Esoteric.
My current chain is from the Esoteric through the Marantz 8802A into the Bryston 7B-SST2 powering a pair of JBL 1400 Array speakers.
I am very happy with the JBLs and just upgraded to the K-01X (had the X-03SE before).
Right now I would like to hear some suggestions for new mono blocks. I am already planning on adding the Esoteric C-03X(s) to the system to replace the Marantz as (stereo) pre-amp.
The primary focus is detail and resolution as I really love hearing new aspects of CDs that previous equipment couldn't reveal.
Soundstage and instrument placement are also high on the list. Bass slam / impact is not really a priority since I am stuck in an apartment for the time being.
Another factor is heat - I am looking for an amp, not a space heater. Especially considering the already hot summers in Toronto!
The price ceiling for me is somewhere around $20,000/pair
My current short list consists of:
Grandinote
Pass Labs
Simaudio
Mark Levinson
Now it's time for the brainpool (that's you guys!) to have at it :)
Thanks in advance!
I am on a bit of a mission to upgrade my equipment and just recently purchased the Esoteric K-01X SACD player.
In my case, the primary focus for critical listening is stereo music (aka red book CD) from the Esoteric.
My current chain is from the Esoteric through the Marantz 8802A into the Bryston 7B-SST2 powering a pair of JBL 1400 Array speakers.
I am very happy with the JBLs and just upgraded to the K-01X (had the X-03SE before).
Right now I would like to hear some suggestions for new mono blocks. I am already planning on adding the Esoteric C-03X(s) to the system to replace the Marantz as (stereo) pre-amp.
The primary focus is detail and resolution as I really love hearing new aspects of CDs that previous equipment couldn't reveal.
Soundstage and instrument placement are also high on the list. Bass slam / impact is not really a priority since I am stuck in an apartment for the time being.
Another factor is heat - I am looking for an amp, not a space heater. Especially considering the already hot summers in Toronto!
The price ceiling for me is somewhere around $20,000/pair
My current short list consists of:
Grandinote
Pass Labs
Simaudio
Mark Levinson
Now it's time for the brainpool (that's you guys!) to have at it :)
Thanks in advance!