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

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.
Could be great but will most likely be fatiguing.
 

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...

@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?

@darkknight8586 I prefer the most natural sound from my system with as little coloration as possible.  The major differences between the C-900 and 6SE in my system I would list as:

1) More realistic sound with the C-900, especially with piano and acoustic guitar tracks.  Quite noticeable on artists like Clapton, Eagles, Stevie Ray Vaughn.

2) Wider/deeper soundstage with the C-900, lower, "blacker" noise floor.

3) Better bass control with the C-900. Tighter, more precise/accurate.

4) 6SE has a "warmer" presentation but tends to mask differences between recordings.  I prefer more detail, higher resolution especially in the midrange.

You can see my complete system on the virtual site.  From your playlist I would say we have fairly similar musical tastes.  I'm not trying to diss on the 6SE in any way, it's really good just not my preference.  I also think that synergy between like components is real, if you like the sound.

My dealer, (who my wife hates btw!!!), who I have worked with for years suggested that if I want to move to a tube pre that I should consider the VAC Statement.  I tend to change equipment fairly often but I'm actually pretty happy with where I am currently. 

All the best...