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Amp choice for Harbeth (SHL5)

Hi,
I recently purchased the SHL5s. I would like to know what kind of amp you are using with them. 

I am NOT looking for an integrated amp although I know LFD and few other integrated amps are recommended. The only reason is I recently purchased an passive pre.

In this short time having them, what I found out although SHL5 plays good with all the amps/different wattage I have tried (Class D & T, older SS Marantz), they are better with 100wpc plus amp. To me they want that reserved power. 

I would like to take these superp speakers to another level with "that" amp. 

I have never owned tube amps. I would like to try maybe the VAC PA100/100 (can't afford newer models) or something in this $1500 price range but not less than 80wpc in 8 ohms. I am little scared of using/dealing with tubes but don't want to hide anymore. 

Please share your amp suggestions with me. 

Thanks. 


celo
sqlsavior
46 posts
 
I heard the Super HL5+ speakers in the Vinnie Rossi room at RMAF. They resembled my Quad ESLs, and I grasped where reviewer Paul Seydor was coming from when he wrote the same thing. From a 'stat lover, it is the highest praise possible. The setup included the giant-single-tube preamp module and the transformer volume control.

Different speakers, and out-of-budget amplification, but enthralling sound.

If you can find a dual-mode (ultralinear/triode), self-biasing PrimaLuna used within your budget, I daresay that one of the combinations of tubes/taps/modes should complement the Harbeths nicely, and should be fuss-free and reliable.
tswisla
176 posts
 
I have the SHL5+.  I initially had them set up with a Pass xa30.8.  It was wonderful.  I then (stupidly) tried a PrimaLuna Dialogue HP and it was awful.  I then tried a Bryston 4BSST2, it was good, but I longed for the Pass.  I now settled on a vintage Sony TA-N80ES.  I have it paried with a TA-E80ES pre and it really sounds great.  I won't be changing until something blows up.
avanti1960
1,405 posts
 
Third for the Vinnie Rossie Lio.  Heard it on Harbeth 3 years in a row at AXPONA.  This year with the SHL5+.  
Tube linestage and capacitor store design isolates it from the AC grid.  Noise floor is unheard of and dynamics are incredible.  Stereophile class A.  
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