2. amps-preamps
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Possible move from Hovland amps?

Regards to everyone in A'gon Land. I've been running a Hovland HP-200 tube preamp and Radia SS poweramp since 2005, and have always been really happy with them. The combination of liquidity without softness (pre amp) and understated control without hardness (pow amp) has resulted in an excellent synergy that I've found hard to replicate in any other amp combination.
I've just upgraded to Zu Audio Definitions Mk 4 speakers which employ xoverless full range drivers, and are v. eff at 103dB, with a v. neutral, fast, tonally dense sound that I've matched nicely with my tt and cd.
So I am valueing speed and neutrality more than ever.
My question, esp. to those who are familiar with the Hovlands, is that whether I should be investigating any interesting alternative amp choices in the context of my system/preferences.
My current list of items to poss. listen to incl. Dave Berning VOTL 230 pre/pow amps, ASR 4 box amp and Audion Black Shadow 845 SET/pre. There are undoubtedly others.
This thread is tempered by the overriding concept that I love the Hovs, and feel that the constant impulse to upgrade is a sophisticated manifestation of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, I mean, where does it all end?! LOL! When one runs out of cash obviously!
Btw, I was so upset years ago when Hovland went bust as a company, such a great product and history, communication with Bob Hovland was always a pleasure.
spiritofmusic

Showing 1 response by keithr

keithr
1,304 posts
 
How big is your room? With Def4s, my preference is for P/P amplifiers over SETs, but I have a rather large room.

I also really enjoyed my Mcintosh gear, which probably sound more in the vicinity of your Hovland SS amp.

I'd personally try a tube amp and see what you think---since it's been since 2005, nothing to lose and if anything would cement your position with the Hovland for another 10 years if they don't work out.
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