2. amps-preamps
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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! 

displayname
displayname's avatar
displayname OP
158 posts
 

@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. 
Sometimes I just need to hear it from someone else, so thank you. 

mihorn
542 posts
 

OP  Someone talk me off the ledge and help me with this sickness!

Listen below. Maybe you'll forget MS amp sound. Alex/Wavetouch audio

https://youtu.be/LlYlIvmmg3c?si=H5JZCeyscqAecaMM&t=475

ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,956 posts
 

Anyone else constantly curious about amps?

Yes. Consider Vinnie Rossi L2i-SE Integrated Amplifier see here.

Mike

bassbuyer
377 posts
 

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.  

triton20trx
7 posts
 

I too am one that what ever I get into I’m all in.  But I’ve learned it’s as much about the chase as it is the capture.  I’ve also learned I can not trust my own logic as to what I need to make the next step.  I have to seek expert unbiased advice.  
One thing I have learned is I am a tube amp guy.  I can listen for 8 hours plus and never fatigue.  With solid state or hybrid integrated amps after a couple hours I am worn out.  Now that my be peculiar to me but at least I’ve eliminated a large section of the amp market.

Thats my experience and opinion which in the big scheme of life is meaningless.

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