Any HiFi equipment sound similar to YBA sonics ?

I think the closest similar sonic signature to the YBA (Passion series amps in particular) are amplifiers from Naim. Very clean, extremely low-noise floor, great dynamics and specifically strong and tight control of the speaker drivers (high damping factor so to speak). I hope YBA will continue to deliver great products with the new owners.

I think the closest similar sonic signature to the YBA (Passion series amps in particular) are amplifiers from Naim. Very clean, extremely low-noise floor, great dynamics and specifically strong and tight control of the speaker drivers (high damping factor so to speak). I hope YBA will continue to deliver great products with the new owners.

Philip,

I should have read the whole posts before responding, my apologies. For SS amplification, consider Pass' XA .5 series class A amps, this would be more in line with the sound you're after. Great transparency and presence. Keep us updated on your new equipment search.

Best,

Philip,

What's your main speakers by the way? For sources, would you be willing to fore-go CD players instead go for the DACs such as from Linn, Weiss, PS Audio, Berkeley, Ayre, DCS ....to name a few. I'm not as experienced as most seasoned audiophiles here, but I think these are some of the best digital sources available in the market.

I heard the Pass XP30 last year, for SS, I really like it and IMO this would compete with the very best out there including tube based ones in terms of transparency and straight wire concept (no coloration). But I would leave the preamp option last, instead try the DACs directly feeding the amps first as most comes with variable output and see if it matches well with your system. Most audiophiles experience thinness when fed directly. But depending on the I/O impedances b/w DAC and amps, type of speakers and ancillary equipments, one can be a rewarding experience.

Best,

Philip, I have no experience with your particular speakers except some of the older model hybrids and the Summit. I would assume they're still difficult to drive speakers as are with the other ML models. I still have and kept my first generation CLS and remain as a reference. Tube components are great with them in most cases which you probably may have tried as well as some of the newer SS amps. I've heard Spectron amps and they sound great with panels too.

For DACs: Linn, Weiss, PS Audio, Berkeley, Ayre, DCS would most likely have most of the attributes you're looking for. Great extension across the band, airy(low noise-low distortion), live presence, not harsh or edgy sounding, flexible interfaces. Bring a couple of DACs home for actual comparison, one of them will surely match well with your system and to your preferences. Do keep us updated.

Best,

Philip, sometimes older components specifically amps and perhaps preamps designed by the Masters in the past can hardly be equaled. But the dig'l playback nowadays are way ahead from the previous designs. Glad to know you are also trying the newer stuff that are recommended and discussed in some of the forums. Enjoy and have fun with your auditions!

Best,