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Question for Merlin VSM/ARS Sonum owners

Hi all,
What did you have (preamp/amp) before convert to one piece Filarmonia ?
Is this Filarmonia sound that good with VSM?
I currently run my VSM-MXe with Cary SLP-05 with Cary CAD-120S (both are Stereophile Class A rated if that matter) - My CD player is Cary 306-200 - Using Cardas Golden Ref balanced cable thru out system.
Wonderful sounding in short -
Now I have a thought of trying Filarmonia to save some rack space (1 vs 3), cable, and $$ as well
I would like to know what you have before ARS Sonum and your comments
TIA
Thuan
128x128thuan98
thuan98's avatar
thuan98 OP
117 posts
 
Thanks all,
An used Fila SE is on its way to my door :-)
I'll report back
Thanks
Thuan
thuan98's avatar
thuan98 OP
117 posts
 
BTW:
I have some Amperex PQ 6922 white label from previous CJ pre - and I will roll with existing tube for sure
For E34L - not sure if I can roll with EL34 or 6CA7 since I have quite a few matched quad from my TAD60

Which name brand is best for these E34L ? How about 5814/12AU7 pair ?
Thanks
Thuan
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Stick with the JJ EL34L (and I think you really need to stick with the "L"s though the standard 34s will work)and the Jan Phillips that come with the amp. The EL34Ls have quite a bit more bottom end the EL34s and the amp is voiced with that in mind.
bobbyapalkovic
729 posts
 
the e34l is a much better sounding tube than the el34. and as for tube rolling, it is really doubtful that you will find a better sounding combination than what is there already. you will only make it sound different and imho, not better. the jan 5814 is a classic.
the e34ls must be a matched quad.
how old is the amp?

b
thuan98's avatar
thuan98 OP
117 posts
 
Hi all,
After 3 weeks of listen to my new Filar SE with stock tubes, here is my comments in comparing to my existing Cary SLP05/CAD120S:
Cary pair give more punch, body, and detail. Sound is rounder (?) even at low volume.
I would give 7/10. Now, I'm satisfy - ARS Sonum can do so much, but not miracle.
I'm keeping the Cary pair!
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