2. amps-preamps
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Battle of three amps

Well, I've got my front end sorted (mainly vinyl), and I've decided that my Io Sig phono stage is going to get volume controls (hopefully at the end of this month) and a line input, so that's gonna be my preamp.

I already have my speakers - VMPS 626Rs - so now all I have to do is get the right power amp. My two present amps (Dyna ST-70 and Pass Aleph 3) though excellent don't have enough power for the 626Rs or enough bass tautness for my taste.

So I'm down to 3 power amps, and I'd like people's input who have heard them. I'm looking for amps that can control the 626Rs with ease, have tube-like midrange, and bass tautness. And be compatible with the Io's output impedance (300 ohms). Yes I want it all. A good deal of it will have been accomplished by my front end.

The three amps are:

1. Blue Circle BC-28
2. ASL Hurricanes (latest version with green PIO caps)
3. Mcintosh MC402

I'm not wedded to either tubes or SS...

Thanks in advance for your help - Patrick
patrickamory
calanctus
151 posts
 
Patrick, your priorities are slightly different from mine (I like transparency and extension above all else) but we've got the same speakers--VMPS 626R. FWIW I'm very satistified right now with my Pass X150.5. The midrange is very natural, and the treble is really something--extended and pure. I don't think you could call the midrange 'tubelike', however.

I will be very interested to hear back from you once you settle on an amp.
jrd351
332 posts
 
no contest-the mac 402
jphii
485 posts
 
Hurricanes. I heard a set and loved 'em! Spent about 4 hours listening to vinyl through them. Since I, like you, and my buddy who has the ASL's are all wedded to vinyl, I have to give them the nod over the others.

That said, I've had no experience with the Blue Circle. But, I spent some time listening to the Mac in a vinyl system and was not impressed.

Joe
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Thanks for the response, guys. Interesting on the Pass Calanctus - I'd considered the X series, but was turned off by talk of a certain leanness... I think the 626Rs' transparency while admirable can translate to a certain leanness in the right setting. How's the bass on the 150.5?

Jphii, what shortcomings did you hear with the Mac? And what was the system you heard it in?

The BC-28 probably wins on price here... but it's a pretty close call. Anyone else out there?

Patrick
patrickamory OP
193 posts
 
Also Calanctus - do you have the FST on your 626Rs? Cap upgrade? I have neither - just curious. Using with the custom Sound Anchor stands with "bearded" fronts.

Patrick
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