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Power Amp for Focal Scala Utopia Evo (Pass, Luxman, Moon, Mc, or Audia Flight?)Hi everyone

Hi everyone,

I am looking for some guidance on choosing a solid-state power amplifier to pair with my Focal Scala Utopia Evos. Unfortunately, I am unable to demo these options in my home environment, so I am relying heavily on your experiences and impressions.

The Contenders: All of the following are in a similar price bracket in my region ($20k):

  • Pass Labs: X350.8

  • Luxman: M-10x

  • Simaudio Moon: 861

  • McIntosh: MC462

  • Audia Flight: Strumento No.4 MkII

My Current System Chain:

  • Source: Hifi Rose RS130

  • DAC: Gustard R30

  • Preamp: Octave HP700SE (Tube)

  • Cabling: Full Neotech UP-OCC loom (Power, Interconnects, Speaker cables)

Listening Preferences: I listen to a wide variety of genres. You can view my reference playlist here for a better idea of my taste: The Palette of Resonare - Apple Music

Given that I am running a Tube preamp (Octave), I am looking for the power amp that offers the best synergy with the Scalas. I would appreciate any thoughts on the tonal characteristics of these matches.

 

darkknight8586
rshad0000
272 posts
 

I’m using an Octave Audio HP700 pre and MRE220 amps with KT150 tubes and super black boxes with my Focal Scala Evos.  I’m very happy with the sound.   Sweet sound but still with good dynamic bass.   Have you thought about just sticking with Octave?

darkknight8586's avatar
darkknight8586 OP
33 posts
 

@rshad0000 Yup, I still have my Octave preamp (HP700SE), I think they are decent in this price range. But I might choose solid state Power amp for better bass grip and more neutral tonal balance instead of full system of tube. 

kofibaffour
718 posts
 

@darkknight8586 10K for two right? if so that is a no brainer

 

If not, the MC462 is still my recommend

darkknight8586's avatar
darkknight8586 OP
33 posts
 

@kofibaffour Yes, That’s right $10K for two. The Mc462 would be around $6K for mint condition

inagroove
264 posts
 

McIntosh may be 'right' in some systems, but I have always been disappointed in their sound when paired with high SQ speaker systems (ex. SF Cremonese).  These excellent speakers quickly revealed the muddy, oddly balanced sound of the ALL-Mac front end.

At the $20k price-point, you may consider a road trip to a major city to visit a few brick-stores...  Perhaps a long weekend in NY, Chicago or LA :-)

Personally, I am moving away from SS to Tubes, so I will not comment further...

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