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 3 responses by schubert

How do listen to one tube when there are 8 of them ?

NO test on a tube tester that will give you a clue?
Turning a tube pre on and off all day switching tubes has got to be hard on your pre and amp.
Q. Any ideas on finding decent tube tester for less than an arm and leg ?
Zero fun for a old man playing whose got the hissss with 8 tube pre.
Mattmiller, from your description I would guess most with SET systems don't listen to the same music as you.
Recreating live acoustic un-amplified is difficult.
If you listen to music that ,live, is played though a glorified PA system, then you are correct, there is no consideration other than your own taste.