Buy used!
Anyone else constantly curious about amps?
I'll start of by saying I have a really great sounding amp, the Mastersound Dueventi. It's a class-A tube amp running in PSET putting out 20 watts of power, which proves to be plenty in my room. I have other audio upgrades that would be more valuable. I've slowly been replacing cables, a new streamer would probably have the biggest impact in my system next, I'd like a new turntable now that I've stepped up my cartridge and phonostage...
But I just keep coming back to amps. For some reason I just feel a need to bring in something new. I can't afford it. It won't be the most high impact in my system. I don't really have anywhere to demo several of these options. But still, I've been on a two week long rabbit hole exploring solid state class A options like Pass and Sugden. I heard a top in system this past weekend with Jeff Rowland driving the system and I forgot how great those can sound, so I'm finding myself looking at their integrated. I know Norma amps sound amazing with my speakers, so I'm always tempted to bump that up the priority list.
Someone talk me off the ledge and help me with this sickness!
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- 68 posts total
@ghdprentice I think you’re absolutely right. I’ve been lucky enough to be exposed to several truly high end systems in homes with amazingly built out rooms, some designed from the initial home build. I’ve been spoiled and deep down I’m just continuing the journey to try to bring some of that home. And I think you are absolutely spot on with being patient, and being willing to travel to demo gear. I suggest that to others often, but more I’m really starting to enter the price points where I need to heed my own advice, and patience really is the key. While I would never finance that type of investment, I can save for it. And that’s what is going to be required. Patience, saving, exploring and committing. |
Yes. Consider Vinnie Rossi L2i-SE Integrated Amplifier see here. Mike |
Interesting timing with your post. I just setup my system at our summer place. I had removed all of the equipment except for the dipole tower speakers I got used so I could let them stay the winter without worrying. Acquired a more powerful used amp over the winter and was planning on upgrading the speakers. I streamed a few tracks and played a CD and I couldn’t believe how much better the speakers sounded. I’m set for now. Glad I didn’t get another pair or speakers since I’m trying to consolidate what I have. We all give you the push you need to buy the amp of your dreams! Side note, I’m getting too old to lug gear back and forth. Everything stays from mow on. If the mice want to jam in the winter they can. |
- 68 posts total