@darkknight8586 get the pair of MC611s. Perfect costing
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):
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Pass Labs: X350.8
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Luxman: M-10x
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Simaudio Moon: 861
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McIntosh: MC462
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Audia Flight: Strumento No.4 MkII
My Current System Chain:
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Source: Hifi Rose RS130
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DAC: Gustard R30
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Preamp: Octave HP700SE (Tube)
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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.
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- 28 posts total
Dear @darkknight8586 There are several fans for the Macak electronics since several years.
Problem is that are coupled by Transformers and the signal must pass trhough thrrible transformers degrading the recording signal no matter what.
R. |
I would be hesitant to pair Focals with Simaudio Moon. Unless you are into presentation that’s on a cooler and more analytical side where you can witness autopsy done on every recording you play. I’d opt for a Pass X350.8. You get Class A power for the first few important watts, plus the huge headroom and current for excellent bass control. Remember , bass is what you need as a counterbalance the hot beryllium tweeter and keeping the overall sound balanced. You can pair the X350.8 with a nice tube preamp if you desire. |
@darkknight8586 I had the Scala Evo's paired with Luxman M-900u's and the C-900u pre and was very happy with the combination. Very revealing/detailed but not harsh. Recently moved to the Maestro's and kept the Luxman. Previously had Mc and Simaudio amps. Although all good Luxman provides, IMO, a richer/fuller sound than the Mc and I did find the Simaudio to be somewhat fatiguing over time although was not the 861. No experience with Pass or Audia Flight but certainly quality gear. The M-10X is considered an upgrade over the M-900 but I would not think the character has changed? Earlier this year I did trial an ARC 6SE pre and still preferred the C-900 with the Focals. Was very good but I enjoy the detail and being able to hear differences in quality between recordings. Everyone has their preferences. For what it's worth, Luxman was recommended to me a few years ago in discussions with Focal at Axpona. In discussions with Luxman they preferred the pairing of either Focal or Magico. I did have the opportunity to audition before purchasing which certainly made the decision easier. Best of luck...
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@wswright20 love to hear your comment about Luxman. For now, Luxman M10x and Pass X260.8 are my final consideration for the Scala, I just have one question, can you describe clearly the difference between the C900U and the Ref6SE in your system chain? |
- 28 posts total

