2. amps-preamps
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Pre + Amplifier Recommendation

Hello All,

First let me say I have spent countless hours researching what may or may not be the right combo for me and my listening preferences - the reality is that there are so many options I am likely more confused now than before, though not from a lack of effort.

So, I have Dali Helicon 400's and listen primarily to rock / folk indie primarily, but do listen to most genres. I have a Cary SLI-80 with upgraded tubes and it sounds great, but lacks a bit of power when i want to turn it up and i am wondering if in addition to increased power i could move up the food chain a bit and get something even better, so long as better is not in the five digits.

I prefer tube sound to any solid state I've owned or heard to date, and my primary concern is being engaged in the music not hearing every last detail, thought that is neat as well.

Was thinking maybe a set of used Cary 805AE units, but fear they may not have enough power. VAC ? BAT ? Quicksilver ? Coincident ?

Or should I start over with new speakers as well? Daedalus Argos look pretty cool and are seemingly more efficient, may open up the options on amplification?

Look forward to your suggestions and thanks in advance.
juggernaut850

Showing 4 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
My experience is the polar opposite of what Mattmiller finds. It has been
the low to moderate power tube amplifiers with high efficiency speakers
that are noticeably more convincing and visceral in music communication
and "feel". But we all can recognize and accept that these
differences are expected. I understand why the OP has his preference for
tube power amplifiers. Which ever path is taken there exist many choices.
Juggernaut850 your idea to move to more efficient speakers is a wise one.
Best of luck.
Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Zd542,
Yes, no argument with that fact.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
I don't think it's a competition between system types and who's approach is better. Rather people can hear the same sound presentation and have vastly different opinions. I don't know who in particular are the low power amp guys referenced, but I imagine listening levels vary amongst them as any other group. Listening loud is just one's personal choice and to do as often as they feel necessary. Some systems need to blast or crank it up to sound their best and some don't (sound superb at moderate SPL). Really it is truly choice and why we're satisfied with our individual routes to Rome.
Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Tls49,
+1. Depending on the speaker used, 1-10 watts is all you'd ever require. On the other hand there are speakers where 300 watts of power is inadequate under certain conditions. High current capability is sometimes more of a factor than the wattage of an amplifier. The speaker's design characteristics determine the appropriate matching amplifier.
Charles,
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