Pdreher - V1 is the first small signal tube(marked on the chassis), that the signal encounters in the amp(when using RCA cables), therefore it has a great effect on the sound. Balanced sections are very important as is the quality of the tube. The 12AX7's affect the sound the most, followed by the 12AT7's. Roll them in that order, if funds are tight. Good luck and have fun.
McIntosh MC 275 Mk IV or V with Harbeth M-40.1?
I've had my Plinius SA-102 for longer than any previous amp (almost 3 years) and have been very satisfied with it's reliability, musicality and build quality, but I'm very intrigued with finally trying a classic tube amp.
I listen to classical, jazz, vocals & acoustic rock at moderate volume levels, so I'm thinking the 75 WPC of the McIntosh MC 275 (mk IV or V) would work fine in my 15' x 21' x 7' basement set up. The Harbeth M-40.1's sensitivity is 85dB/W/m, 6 ohm nominal. Suggested amplification: >50W (Stereophile's review of the M-40.1's noted excellent success when driven by a 35wpc Shindo push-pull amp)
I've researched other tube amps from Rogue (M120's & 150's), VTL (ST-150), Manley (Snappers), Cary (120S), Audio Research (VT-100 MK III) and Quicksilver (V-4's). Ultimately I'm leaning heavily towards the Mac MC 275 (Mk IV or V) due to its not being a monoblock, it's a classic unit with excellent build quality and good resale value, and it's known to be reliable and is easy to bias.
Preamp is an Aesthetix Calypso with NOS tubes and my sources are digital and FM.
Comments from those experienced with later model McIntosh MC 275 and/or Harbeth M-40.1's would be appreciated.
Thanks - Paul
I listen to classical, jazz, vocals & acoustic rock at moderate volume levels, so I'm thinking the 75 WPC of the McIntosh MC 275 (mk IV or V) would work fine in my 15' x 21' x 7' basement set up. The Harbeth M-40.1's sensitivity is 85dB/W/m, 6 ohm nominal. Suggested amplification: >50W (Stereophile's review of the M-40.1's noted excellent success when driven by a 35wpc Shindo push-pull amp)
I've researched other tube amps from Rogue (M120's & 150's), VTL (ST-150), Manley (Snappers), Cary (120S), Audio Research (VT-100 MK III) and Quicksilver (V-4's). Ultimately I'm leaning heavily towards the Mac MC 275 (Mk IV or V) due to its not being a monoblock, it's a classic unit with excellent build quality and good resale value, and it's known to be reliable and is easy to bias.
Preamp is an Aesthetix Calypso with NOS tubes and my sources are digital and FM.
Comments from those experienced with later model McIntosh MC 275 and/or Harbeth M-40.1's would be appreciated.
Thanks - Paul