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Aeris speakers amp

I've been lurking here for a while and have gained some appreciated valuable information. I have ordered new Aeris speakers with the Wavelet. I currently have a PrimaLuna EVO 400 preamp and amp (70wpc stereo). I tried out the amp on an old set of original Legacy Focus speakers and found it was not up to the task. I then biamped the speakers with the PL driving the upper end and it seemed to just do the job. The Aeris has larger drivers on the top end and I cannot find an impedance plot to ascertain how much below 4 ohms they go. Since the Wavelet is also a preamp, I am considering sending the PL preamp back and get another PL amp to run in mono. I like the sound of the PL with the Focus and like the triode mode for some recordings. The only other amps I have for comparison is PS Audio M700's and some old PS Audio 250 Delta's. I prefer the sound of the PL over those. My other thought was to get a set of PS Audio BHK 300's but would consider others. Any advice and/or opinions for amplification would be appreciated.
steveindy

Showing 2 responses by douglas_schroeder

douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
Have you talked to Legacy Audio about your desires,  or are you just shooting in the dark? The larger drivers are not a problem  for average powered amps. You could use the Legacy amp on the bass/subwoofer and something else on top. It will be completely different speakers to drive than the full range focus. Talk to Legacy. 
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
Nice research! Ok, so are you gonna face it? You want a new amp with your new speakers! ;) OK, so the PLs are out, or done in Mono, at which point you may as well look at possibilities of new amp(s). 

I had a similar situation with the Pathos Classic One years ago (models I, II and III reviewed for Dagogo.com). I did get a second one and run them mono. It was swell! But, eventually, as will happen, a different amp outperformed and they went goodbye. I still miss their gorgeous midrange, however, and gorgeous looks. 

Regarding class D, it's not possible to gain a perfect perspective on the genre from one ownership experience. I have never been overwhelmed by PS Audio amps; just being honest. If you are using old models of PS Audio I can certainly see why you're not seeking class D. But, there is a fairly wide range of performance among class D. Just letting you know. 

But, if you adore tube sound, sure, why not stick with it? OTOH, the Legacy amps were designed to have high synergy with their speakers - and that is an important possible advantage that should not be overlooked. Perhaps chat with other big Legacy speaker owners who have their amps. I certainly would not dismiss that option. It is entirely possible that the Legacy amp could be preferable to any given tube amp you select. Only direct comparison would tell. 

You're asking people to give you an edge on SS/tube without ever hearing the amps or speakers. Can't be done. You simply have to do your homework in terms of actual comparison if your goal is to know with certainty. 
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