I do'nt use the Aleph 5, but 3, how different can they be?
I believe in combining valve pre with SS power amp. I have recently aquired a Conrad Johnson Premier 17LS (off the Audiogon adds of course) and the combination is wonderful, detailed but not harsh, a great soundstage. The music seemed to rise 3 feet higher with the CJ. It seems to suit all genres of music too. It may seem overkill to use a $4500 pre on a $2000 power, but I think the pre is the most difficult and expensive component to get right.
As an aside, the CJ costs $8100 in the UK, no wonder European enthusiasts try to buy US kit direct from the states. The nearly new 17 cost $2700
I believe in combining valve pre with SS power amp. I have recently aquired a Conrad Johnson Premier 17LS (off the Audiogon adds of course) and the combination is wonderful, detailed but not harsh, a great soundstage. The music seemed to rise 3 feet higher with the CJ. It seems to suit all genres of music too. It may seem overkill to use a $4500 pre on a $2000 power, but I think the pre is the most difficult and expensive component to get right.
As an aside, the CJ costs $8100 in the UK, no wonder European enthusiasts try to buy US kit direct from the states. The nearly new 17 cost $2700