Amplifier for Martin Logan Requests

Hiflyer, Have a Baron (using matched 5881's)with the tri-tube mod (you can just plug in 5881's, EL34's or KT99's and set the bias accordingly). I don't have the soft-start feature on my amp, the standby mode is just fine and I have heard reports of the soft-start circuit creating problems but don't have first hand experience. That's about all you can get in a Baron. My Audible Illusions Modulus 3 (with NOS Seimens 6DJ8's) sounds good with the Baron, but the Mod3 has so much gain that adjustments and control are a bit of a pain -- can't get beyond 7 or 8 o'clock. I'm going to try and find out if the M3 gain is adjustable. Even so, I'm still going to step up (I've had the preamp for 6 or 7 years now). From a sonic standpoint, the AI is a good match with the Mesa. With respect to CJ, the Premier 5's are popular and a good value on the used market, but aren't my cup of tea. Although they have plenty of power, they still have what I think is a Conrad Johnson "house sound" -- warmer, more euphonic than I prefer. But, that said, lots of other people really dig these characteristics -- they do have their following. And I guess they would tone down overly bright speakers. Whatever tube amp you choose, just be sure to stick with a tube pre. While a tube pre/ss power amp can be a good combination, it tends not to work in reverse.

Hello Jim my name is Dave at curlysimpson@yahoo.com. I have been using a BAT VK5i/Bryston 4BST. I love the BAT but have a connection for a used Mesa Baron. I think, after your comments, the Baron is just what I need. A shotgun of tubes going out to my ML ReQuests. Question though. Will the BAT have any problems with the Baron. The BAT is a first class built unit. Maybe a tube upgrade could only improve on excellance. What tubes are you using in the Baron. Appreciate your comments and thanks for the Baron info.

What kind of spkr/interconnects are you using. I have been using Nordost SPM ref spkr and MIT 330Pro Interconnects. Also what do you use on your the front end. I am upgrading and have been think of the BAT VK5d or Meridian 508. There seems to be good value on the used market.

What kind of pre are you using with the BAT Amp. I am currently using a VK5i and need upgrading from my Bryston 4BST. Seriously looking at tubes but the BAT amps go very well with there pre's. What kind of spkr wire/interconnects do you use. Appreciate any info, Thanks

Hey, Dave. Right now I'm using AQ Lapis IC's and AQ Midnight speaker cable. I've had these for years, left over from my Apogee/solid state amp days. I'm pondering upgrades throughout and going back and forth on the silver vs. copper speaker cable thing. I'll probably audition both types from the same manufacturers. I'm using Mesa's matched 5881 tubes right now. Once I sort out IC's/cables I'll play with EL34's, supposed to be more detailed and more delicate although they are not as rugged as the 5881's. The 5881's do sound damn good, though. Also, I found that NOS tubes really helped my Mod3 pre. This is another piece that I'll be upgrading soon (thinking about a Joule). Hope this helps.