Channel Islands D-100 Amplifier

I'm looking at using the amps with Elac 207.2 speakers, which I'd describe as open, detailed and neutral in my system, with sacd playback via a modified SA8400 (a two-channel version of the SA8260) and cd playback through the Marantz and a Bel Canto DAC2.

Well, I bit the bullet and ordered the amps. What's the worst that can happen? They'll presumably take a little bit of time to get here (Australia) but I'll post my findings after I've listened to them.

Thanks for the helpful comments which convinced me to make the purchase. If I don't like them it will be all your fault!

If you feel that your speakers are neutral and that the amp also is classified or perceived as neutral, there might be a potential for trouble. Nevertheless, Neutral+Neutral does not have to equal ultra neutral or sterile. I have read a review of a pair of Avalon loudspeaker paired with Spectral gear, amp and preamp. By themselves, they all were described as neutral sonically, but when they were paired, they actually complemented each other's sonics very well. It was in Hi Fi magazine, a UK based periodical. But, if they get there and do sound a tad too cold or sterile, you can always add a tubed preamp and some copper IC would be able to tame the neutrality to make it livable. What sort of pre are you planning to use?

I'm planning on using my Marantz SR9300 receiver as a pre for the time being, though will upgrade to a stand-alone unit once the budget allows. I guess the Marantz is probably on the warm side of neutral, so it will be interesting to see what sort of a combination it makes. It may also provide a clue as to what sort of a separate pre I should look for.

I received my D-100s in the third week of January (which were the first pair delivered which had been used as demos at CES. To me they sound pretty much like my previous listening system which was Sennheiser HD-600 headphones (Moon Audio Silver Dragon cable) powered by the Headroom Max 2004 ($1800). The D-100s power VMPS 626R Signature Edition 3-way stand-mounted monitors. If anything they are a little more lush especially noticeable in female vocals. They have great space and sweetness and I couldn't be happier.
Bob Major