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M5si as pre amp with a tube power amp

This is my first time posting on the forum.  I am only about 18 months into the HiFi rabbit hole.  I have assembled several systems at this point, using a combination of new (mostly from Upscale Audio) and used components. My primary system now consists of:

  • Musical Fidelity M5si
  • Musical Fidelity M2scd
  • Cambridge Audio EXN100 streamer/DAC
  • Music Hall Classic TT
  • Musical Fidelity MX-VYNL Phonostage
  • Fyne 501sp
  • Fyne S-Trax
  • REL T/7x
  • Analysis Plus speaker wire and interconnects

 

What I like to get input on is whether introducing a tube-based power amp (like a Prima Luna EVO100) would add a notable layer of warmth and enhanced sonic output.  In this scenario, the M5si would act a pre amp. 

 

Another option I have looked into is instead adding a Musical Fidelity X-Tube Buffer in the chain between the EXN100 streamer/DAC and the M5si integrated. 90% of my listening is with the streamer and this option would theoretically add some of the benefits of tube warmth at a much lower price point that adding a full tube power amp.

I appreciate any thoughts and guidance.

 

 

 

kpelser
easystreamer
130 posts
 

You have assembled quite the system. That is a lot of equipment, so why not add one more piece :)

My thought is that the M5si might be better as an amp than as a preamp with its dual mono design. What about adding a nice dedicated tube preamplifier which will be the "quarterback" of your system? In the future you could add a dedicated amp after you figure out the sound signature you like.

kpelser OP
4 posts
 

Thanks very much for your thoughtful response and suggestion.  As it turns out, I stopped by Upscale Audio on my way home from work and talked with Joel and Kevin.  I am going to buy an open box Prima Luna EVO 300 Integrated amp and make that my new "end game" amp.  Upscale is going to take my pristine conditioned Musical Fidelity M5si amp in on trade and they are giving me a very fair deal to offset the price of the Prima Luna.  I will make plug here for the team at Upscale.  I really like doing business with them and I'm fortunate enough to live ten minutes from their store location.  

Now I just need to explain to my wife why I must trade in, and up, from the M5si that I bought just 45 days ago. 

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