2. amps-preamps
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New preamp experience

Through the years, I have changed amps, speakers, front end components and various cabeling topologies many times across a large range of tube and solid state systems but the constant was always my Cary SLP05 preamp. I always perceived it to be the best pre I had ever heard and it is very adaptable and capable of applications on both sides of the fence. The 300b Coincident Frankenstien Monoblocks that I purchased sounded really great through this pre but O MY GOSH!! I just recieved the Coincident Statement Linestage pre amp and now I'm wondering..maybe the choice of preamp has all along been my weakest link. This preamp is absolutely incredable. I guess I learned a lesson here.
markus1299
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Hi Pdreher,
Aren't you using the VAC REN 70 watt amp? Is there a sonic difference between the two Renaissance models besides the power? I'm curious as I usually prefer the lower power versions of otherwise identical amplifiers. But mine is a somewhat minority position.
Regards,
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,184 posts
 
There is a subtle but noticeable difference. The 30/30 is sweeter and more organic vs. it's larger sibling.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
It would seem an option to remove 1/2 the output tubes and effectively convert the REN 70/70 to a 30/30, or is there more to it than that?
Regards,
markus1299 OP
252 posts
 
In my quest for the ultimate sound to my ears, the one lesson that I have learned is that more does absolutely not mean better. Wish I could recoup the bucks I spent to reach this conclusion but guess it has been all about the learning curve and what my ears perceive as the best.

Mark
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Markus,
Words of true experience and wisdom.
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