Music Reference RM9 vs RM9 MKII


This amp has been recommended to me and I'd like to know what everyones opinion is about it's performance. I've been looking for one and there not for sale. Are they that good?
a2z
Hi, I'm really shocked to hear you say their "bad,really bad". Which one was did you listen to and did you have inserted in your system.
Quite large.I own the 9 mk2.It has been moved to center channel duties.(Bi-amp with Aerial-CC3)(bi-wire capable) While I'm not trying to say this is the best amp; I can modestly say it ain't bad.The original 9 was class B the9 mk2 was A.As I read thru different posts I can tell you it's better then what some folks use.The reason you don't see as many used is 2fold #1:It is one of those "hard to beat for the money" amps,#2 they didn't make as many as say AR or CJ;they don't make it any more.It has user friendly biasing;trim pots W/ leds.You can use EL34-6550,KT88.I have sets of ea.When the AR VT100 came out,I borrowed one for a weekend, a dealer demo.-sorry guys it wasn't nearly as musical it was harsh to my ears.Both amps being tube,I figure it wasn't a synergy problem.While I admit I am anti A.R., it is the dominant tube gear Co. Stereophile reviews EVERY PIECE they come out with.Gives it their highest ratings,and has little space for other products. This is why so many of us haven't heard of a lot of gear.
i can honestly say, had UPS not dropped my RM 9 mkII i would still be enjoying it. people tend to keep them, even when they call themselves moving up to the next level. they are very musical and ultra dependable. i sent mine to the factory to change from EL 34's to 6550's
Thanks for your experiences, I do know that the MKII was used to make the prototypes of the Merlin TSM speakers. Lastly I am looking seriously to buy one so perhaps someone out there has one there not using and could use some $$$$$$. Thanks Richard