Pathos Classic One MKiII vs. my separates


I have been thinking of downsizing my rig by going back to a hybrid integrated amplifier. I currently use a Jolida Fusion preamp with a BEL 1001 MK V amp to drive a pair of Esoteric MG 10 speakers (87dB sensitive, 6 ohms nominal dropping to 3.8 somewhere below 2000ohms).  I enjoy the Jolida/BEL combo, change is just for the downsize. I like the idea of tube pre/SS output of hybrid integrateds, having owned a Vincent in the past.  The Pathos is currently on offer here on AG. Asking for thoughts from members with knowledge of the Pathos. Thanks.
mesch

Showing 1 response by douglas_schroeder

That's a generous sound on your video; kudos. However, it can be improved several ways starting with a second Pathos and going mono. 

Having reviewed and owned a pair of Pathi, I concur that it's a great package overall. If I still owned them, and there are times I kick myself for selling them, I would use my Schroeder Method of Interconnect Placement in order to obtain the best sound from them. I'm pretty certain that had I known about the double IC method back then, I could have gotten them to perform far better than more expensive separates.

And they look SO fantastic for an affordable product!!!! 

Before you consider doing the Schroeder Method, know that it is an at your own risk proposition, and you would benefit from reading my article on it at Dagogo.com, as well as the thread here on the cable forum that bears my name. You will note that everyone who has tried it here has been extremely pleased. At this point caution is advised in regard to using it with NOS DACs that send the signal direct from the DAC chip, and class D amps. Check with your manufacturer if you have any questions about compatibility. 

Regarding outperforming separates using Schroeder Method, that would be a relative superiority, as it would be expected that were I to place the double ICs between the separates they likely once again would outperform. The question is, however, at what cost? I am confident that I could get the Pathi to perform on the level of most separates at a minimum of double the cost, given that the separates were using single ICs. 

I presume you have worked with aftermarket power cords; if not, you need to. Also, you may wish to roll tubes with the Pathos, as it is efficacious and typically not costly.  :)