2. amps-preamps
  3. 142823-107780

Simaudio W-5 or Odyssey for Dynaudio Contour S3.4

Hello, I've recently upgraded from Dynaudio Focus 160 monitors to Contour S3.4s. My listening space moved to a much larger room in the house so I'm in the process of systematically upgrading my system. I'm trying to stick to a budget so I'm looking at used equipment to get the most 'bang for the buck'. My amp budget is $1500 - $2k max. I've been searching the forums looking at past posts for amps that pair well with Dynaudio and the Contour line. Some are out of my price range (Plinius, Krell) but I've come across few options within budget and I'm looking for a little guidance from those who may have experience with Simaudio Moon W-5 or Odyssey Stratos - either stereo or dual mono amp. 

I listen to Jazz, female vocals, Classic Rock and more contemporary rock, some EDM/Electronic. I like broad deep sound stage, lush mids and vocals. Controlled bass is appreciated but I don't need the ultimate in "slam". I'm currently running a Yamaha MX-1000 with Nakamich CA-5 Preamp. The Yamaha has power, grip, brute force but it lacks musicality. I have a backup Luxman r-117 receiver which I've tried as well. It has a broader sound stage and more musical presentation to my ears but lacks the power of the Yamaha. I'd like to get the best of both if possible.   

The remainder of the systems consists of Rega Apollo CD, Rega P3 (Ortofon blue), and Nakamichi CA-5 preamp. *the preamp is most likely the next component I look to upgrade.

Thanks in advance for any guidance you all can provide.   
roohark

Showing 1 response by stereo5

stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,250 posts
 
I bought a new Odyssey Stratos Extreme+++ stereo amp from Klaus at Odyssey in March of 2010.  I used it until August 2017 and absolutely loved the amp.  It had fantastic bass slam, delicate treble, a warm and smooth midrange and it seemed to have unlimited power.  My particular amp had the Kismet black board, two 400V Plitron power transformers, upgraded wiring and binding posts and 180,000uf of caps for the power supply.  To be perfectly honest, I am very sorry I sold it.

I had bought GE T Ref speakers and thought I needed more power, so I went with a much more expensive Conrad Johnson MF2550 250wpc solid state amp.  The CJ amp was very slow, thick and syrupy and I didn't keep it long.  Long story short, I ended up with an all Mac system and I am very happy, but at times I miss the Stratos.  I should have kept it for a spare.
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