Vinnyd: I heard the Avalon Ascendants with ARC tubes and Spectral solid state: Spectral all the way, and it was not even close. I am not saying other electronics wouldn't work but for the money solid state for Avalon. I have tried my ARC tube electronics with my Avalon Radians, did not sound that lively conpared to my Spectral stuff.
Amps/Preamps for Avalon Ascendant
First of all, I am new to all this audio stuff be easy on me, but i wanted my sytem sounds good. I am planning to buy Avalon Ascendant shortly, still looking for new or used amps/preamps in price range of $6000 to $8000. My music room is 13ft by 13ft and 12ft vaulted ceiling. I am listened to mostly soft rock. I like liquid sounds, big sound stage, transparent. I have something in minded for preamp (Aesthetix calpyso or Cary Slp-98), amp(Ayre v-5x),speaker cable (Cardas golden Ref.). Are they good match together for what i like?. But willing to listen other audiogoner advice. Thanks ahead for any advice.