2. amps-preamps
  3. 118960-4804

In need of amp upgrade suggestions

Interested in upgrading from our Simaudio Moon W-5/P-5 amp/pre power plant of 9 yrs.  Have always enjoyed the authority of the W-5, and would like to find something that really excels in low amplitude transient clarity, frequency balance, and can throw an exceptional soundstage.  Digital source is pretty hi-rez (Esoteric K-03), and cabling is on par as well (all JPS Aluminata).  Speakers are strong in efficiency (Daedalus Athena) at around 95db.  Recently auditioned a pr of Pass xa60.8's, but frankly thought the W-5 did a better presentation, less soundstage (I know, sounds crazy, but that's the way I hear it).  Open to push/pull, SET, or ss, but I suspect ss.  Any suggestions?   

mbump
fliz
66 posts
 
Check out John Tucker's new integrated.

http://www.exemplaraudio.com/integrated.html

Don't let it's price deceive you. It's a giant killer.  

Paul Wakeen of Stillpoints just had one of these commissioned for his personal system.

If you're in the SF Bay Area, you're welcome to stop by and hear what his gear sounds like.  I have his current preamp feeding his reference 300b SET amps.
maxboy00's avatar
maxboy00
273 posts
 
Since you have Daedalus speakers, surprised you haven’t looked at Modwright?  Lou is a big advocate of MW amps  driving his speakers, and MW gear is very well designed and supported. 
mbump OP
66 posts
 
Though I have not auditioned in my system, I have listened to two different systems w/ Dan's KWA 100 and 150SE (one w/ Daedalus Ulysses, one w/ Magico's).  Just not the resolution I'm looking for - seemed a bit rolled off on upper frequencies and soft in midbass.  But just my impressions.  Both Dan and Lou are top-shelf individuals, and I trust their work and professional opinions implicitly.  I had considered two particular SET designs - Art Audio Adagios and the NAT se2se monos.  However, concerned w/ the former's current lack of support in the US, and sim. with NAT, just not much information, though what I have been able to gather via internet and colleagues has been descriptive of the sound I'm looking for.      

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