Anybody own Audio Experience Symphonies?

This is the best kept secret in the audio world. I bought the Symphonies + Pre-amp from a audiogon member. I retubed it with some 5751 tubes and I was shocked at how glorious the sound was. Rich,mellow,deep-deep soundstage, beautifully detailed. The construction on Pre-amp was first rate. No skimping on the parts or build. First Class all the way. The price with their current promotion is 680.00!! Hard to believe. If you want to spend 3,000-4,000 go ahead but you wont beat out this Pre-amp!

I own one and all I can say is "It is world class pre-amp and better than any pre-amp cost 3 times the price"

Following my previous remarks I would like to add that anyone owning this Pre-Amp should replace the stock tubes with the New Groove Tube 12ax7M. Its a clone of the classic Mullard British tube. The sound will amaze you especially if you like rich,warm expansive sound.

I own an older rotel preamp rtc-970 and Dolby Digital decoder rotel rda-975 as well as the Symphonies and I can tell you I am sometimes tempted to buy two more of the Symphonies to listen to movies on and throw away the rotel rtc-970. I use the Marantz MA500's for amps(x5) which are also a great deal if you aren't going totally analog and like watching movies. All point to point. Only downside I have noticed: the clicks inbetween CD/AV/AUX1/AUX2 have a little static. Low gain so bablancing for AV output means turning it up at least to 12:00. You can almost see these idiosynchrosys as quaint at the amp's price. Never interferes with output - never unsatisfied even watching big action films, not to mention breathes some life in - I was sold after flipping back and forth while watchign a DVD of The Shield - Chickliss' growl had real *human* abrasive depth that it lacked on the rotel. Build is VERY solid. Probably worth replacing the power cord as well with something better. The guy who makes them, while he barely speaks English is really great, and double boxes everything. He also includes shipping in the price. After burn in you will not believe how airy and fresh, how lifelike everything sounds. I like this preamp better than Conrad Johnson/Jolida. Also Manley if only for price. It is similar to a preamp Cary makes, but which I haven't heard. There are two line-outs on the back if you bi-wire. Another perk. I really can't recommend this preamp enough - you wouldn't feel ripped off even if you paid $2000. for it - at $400. it's unstoppable.

Hi Rkt008

I would like to try the "New Groove Tube 12ax7M" you stated, however I can only find 12ax7 at http://www.torresengineering.com/torresengineering/12ax70ecprea.htmlNew Groove Tube 12ax7M. Are they the same as 12ax7M, this might be a stubid question, but I am new to tube equ, please help.

Thanks
Alan