Anyone evaluate the Xindak ?

Hi Sherod,

this could be a very interesting thread...especially if we enlarge the question just a bit to include an overview of every hybred amp now out there...in the sense of comparing them to each other...

Yes...yes, I know that comparing amps in this way is unrealistic...but wouldn't it be nice to see if any real differences exist in the plethora of new hybreds that are popping up in the audio markets these days...

It seems that many amplifier designers are jumping on the band wagon perceiving, no doubt, a new and active market in this particular design strategy.

Another question might be: Does this design topology actually work? or is it a compromise approach that never actually (fully/completely) integrates the disparate technologies of SS and tube into a "whole" fabric of its own.

The Chinese are certainly coming on strong into the American audio market with ever newer designs and making quite an inroad here...one hears varying feedback about thier level of craftsmenship which is reputed/reported to be inconsistent irregular and in some cases down right unreliable...

Wouldn't it be nice if there was a forum that could gather information about these reliability issues? That would put the Chinese audio companies on notice that they had better intensify their quality control or loss customers...also what about the issue of "updates" and maintenance here in the US? Obviously, this could also become an issue...I do not have to mention how many times product distributors change hands...often an irksome business for the owner of audio gear...

Just some thoughts...

And while we are on the subject...can anyone who actually owns the unico integrated give us a clear perspective on what it sounds like?

As always...thanking everyone in advance.

Best-Richard

Excellent questions Richard. I too would like to hear some feedback regarding the issues you brought up. If you can go back to the early to late 80's and read up in some of the IAR Hotlines, you'll find that J. Peter Moncrieff was one of the first to talk in depth about this ideal "Hybrid" sound that his ears were yearning for.

I was very impressed by the heft and the sound.

As a point of reference I have owned:
Jeff Rowland Concentra
Electrocompaniet ECI4
Pathos Twin Towers (current reference)
Bel Canto eVo2i
BEL 1001 mk. IV
Counterpoint . . . the list goes on.

Muse Model Nine Signature (seriously undervalued piece!)
Talon Raven speakers (can't say enough good about these)
Great cables, conditioners and assorted tweaks.

The sound of the Xindak is detailed, rich and powerful. Nothing to criticize with the possible exception of a slight tilt up in the bass region (in my room, system, etc.)

The qualtity was, however, lacking and gave me serious concerns about the long term viability of the unit. This was a 2 week old demo from a local dealer I was loaned. One tube appeared out although both channels played(?); the volume balance at low levels was very imprecise and a couple of other nits.