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Wilson Sophia2s demand better than AYRE V5xe, so..

...What would you recommend?

Just took delivery of Wilson Sophia 2s. Plinius CD101 - Ayre K1xe - Ayre V5xe - Sophia 2s. Synergistic Research cables.

The K1xe is very good, I'd like to keep it, but I need a new amp.

The V5xe is too lean in the midbass, no texture or bloom. Soundstage is okay, but not "full" enough. No deep bass!

At the RMAF, I liked VAC phi 200s on the Von Schweikert VR-9se AND on the Greshman Black Swans as a point of reference.

I'm open to tubes or SS, but I think tubes might get me where I want to go. I'm looking for very full and detailed imaging that absolutely floats in the air, with intense layering, body and texture. I need better control over these speakers, and stronger deep bass output, speakers sound too thin now. I want fullness of images like MBL speakers, but with a more natural, involving midrange like the best Acapellas.

Budget is 10k new or used. Again, looking for a warmer, natural sound with very delineated images that complement my dynamic Wilson speakers, so don't underpower me!...
hce4

Showing 1 response by mcrheist

mcrheist
130 posts
 
I am a Sophia Series 2 owner, and have used a myriad of power amps (ss/tubes) with these speakers including the VTL MB-450 sigs (tubes)...not reliable, unfortuately. As a result, I would never demo these ever again.

Nothing has compared to the performance I have received from matching the Wilson Sophia Series 2 with the new ARC VS-115 tube amps. They are perfectly matched for the system, room , and there have not been any performance glitches. Please feel free to email me for more details.
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