Coincident Frankenstein 300b Stereo Amp

@kennyc 

+1 @lak, ​​@charles1dad is a knowledgeable owner/user of the Coincident Frankenstein MkII. IIRC @charles1dad did not like the upgrade to MkIII, but I’m debating to get mine upgraded to mkIV.

Hi Kenny

I believe that you'll be quite pleased with your Frankenstein and Vollti pairing. I can't think of a single reason as to why this should not be a marvelous combination.  I do need to clarify something however, I have not had the opportunity to hear the MK III or IV Frankenstein models (Nor the new stereo version). So I'm can't offer any opinion of them.

I can't imagine either of the mono block models taking a step backwards from my MK II mono blocks.  Coincident does not do model upgrades that frequently. When they do it's usually For a good reason and subsequently an  improvement.

As I have stated  in the past,  I have owned  my MK II since bought new in August 2009. Upon the very 1st listening session I knew I had made the right choice.14 years later and  if anything I appreciate This amplifier even more so. It is a fabulous 300b SET.

As far as speakers are concerned reasonably high sensitivity is desirable. Equally if not more important is the speaker impedance characteristics. Higher is generally more advantageous along with a simpler crossover design. I'd seek out speakers that are designed with the intention of usage with SET amplifiers.

The Frank stereo amplifier has out performed my Wavelength Cardinal XS mono blocks, VAC PA160, and Wyetech Topaz.  Simply stupid good - correction, GREAT.

The Wyetech had the superior leading edge of the note and overall dynamics - until I switched out my Gold Lion 300Bs for the PSVANE Acme 300B which are more lush in the midrange and more extended overall - with dynamics and stage to die for. A 20% improvement at minimum!

Set up with the right speakers, cables, room, and associated gear is essential (as always)

Good luck.

Paul

@paul_lindemann 

That is quite the compliment given that list of very distinguished tube amplifiers. I will say that if any amplifier can exploit the higher sonic potential of the upper tier 300b tube it’s the Frankenstein. This SET amplifier deserves the best quality tubes one can afford. It’s good to read the Frankenstein has worked out so well for you.

Charles 

Hi Charles.

The Franks are exceptional amps....but the choice of speakers, Soliloquy 6.2 with its impedance curve is a perfect match - better than the match of the wavelengths for example.

Then speaker positioning, room tuning, trying out numerous power cables, interconnects, speaker cables, digital cables and of course tubes - the ACME's are great - and the TS brown base black glass are so musical and revealing!

I have spent much more - Wavelengths, Devore speakers, Elrod cabling - and have less organic, musicality because (I suspect) the sum of the parts were less complementary.

Cheers,

P

@paul_lindemann

Your post yesterday really caught my attention. When I had decided to explore the world of SET amplifiers the Wavelength and Wyetech (Also Viva) were very much under serious consideration. I do not doubt for a moment that I would have been very happy with the other esteemed SET alternatives. But once I chose the Frankensteins there was no looking backwards. I truly relate to your joy.😊

Charles