Using similar interconnect construction(same wire, different termination obviously), I prefer balanced runs between my W4S gear. |
I am unsure what your question is. Are you only asking for the W4S preamp and amp combo or any pre used with a Class D amp? |
I would like to hear from anyone who uses or has heard the W4S amps and preamp together preferably with balanced connects in respect to other gear they may have owned. I am also interested in input from anyone who has used switching amps with other peamps with good results. I am using a Bel Canto S300ui while my tube amp is in for repair and it sounds surprisingly good. I am considering moving up the chain to mono's for greater resolution and dynamics. Thanks for the replies so far. |
Bel Canto gear sounds wonderful, esp the latest models. I love my REF 1000 mk2 (now M) paired with a Pass Labs XP10 pre. Wonderful combination for warm, open, wide soundstage, excellent detail, dynamics and PRAT, very deep tuneful bass. I hear very good things about the REF 500M too. I can't comment about W4S gear. Tell us about your other components... |
I'm using a pair of Wyred 4 Sound SX-1000 monoblocks along with a Dodd Audio Battery tube preamp. The music sounds wonderful. I have also used a Plinius M-16 preamp with the SX-1000 monoblocks that also sounded wonderful.
I hope this helps? |
I am using the W4S STP-SE Preamp with the W4S-ST-500 Power amp with Shunyata Altair XLR'S.These are powering vintage JBL 150A speakers (500$ for these in mint shape) and this combo sounds like way much more money.The source is a Sony 9100es -Modwright Mods- cd player for my den system.Also powers and supplies audio for Plasma tv.
The W4S amps have a warm,expansive sound and are capable of powerful bass,yet insightful detail.Speaker and room dependent,if you want power and volume these are great.
Best case scenario on the class "D" amps-buy a Spectron and a tube preamp.Long break in on these class D amps but they are worth the wait.Any help to you? |
Thanks so much guys. This is exactly what I was hoping for. It has been a very long time since tubes have not been in the signal path of my stereo and I am twitchy. Unfortunately no way to audition similar setups within a 500 mile radius that I am aware of. |
My preamp is a VAC Renaissance running balanced outs to the W4S ST500. Speakers for this setup are N802 and the system sounds great. I have never tried to run the amp single ended so I can't say what the difference might be. The manual for the W4S states that balanced is the preferred connection. |
I am running the SX-500 monos into Maggie MMG's,
it is a great combination for sound quality, power, and price
My pre-amp is an Adcom GFP-750
definitely coveting the W4S STP pre...think it would be a nice upgrade from the Adcom GFP-750 |
I am running a ST-500 into a pair of Earl Geddes Abbey 12As, and it sounds great. I use a RHB Sound Dezign modified CJ PV-14L for a preamp, which means I have no choice but to use single ended cables. I am completely happy with the sound of this combo, it is very revealing. |
Peb
I am using a Bel Canto Pre 3 that can be has for $950 used while my tube pre is being made.
It is wonderful sounding and would be the perfect upgrade for you.
Boy does this little unit sing! |
I am using a Bel Canto Pre3 now and have paired it with Bel Canto a pair of M300s, the S300 and the S500. Also tried the PS Audio Trio A-100 and lastly a Seymour AV ICE Block 5001 with the Pre3. All of these setups were run with balanced connections. My least favorite was the S500 which is a surprise as that is the most expensive one in the bunch.
At this point I am not using class D amps. I picked up a Harman Kardon PA-2200 amp built in the mid to late 90s. After giving the amp a thorough cleaning I installed an IEC socket, rewired the A/C from the socket to the transformer, then rewired the output section with DHlabs cable and installed some Cardas binding posts I had on hand. Put the amp in just to see how it sounded and have had no desire to remove it. Warm, full sound, just a joy to listen to.
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Grannyring and Timrhu-- Thanks for the suggestions on the Bel Canto Pre3...
No funds for upgrades yet :(
This is my 1st real system, so I have not had a chance to demo much equipment
Like the OP, I am curious to hear the W4S STP-pre synergy with the W4S amps
The passive section on my Adcom GFP-750 gets the most use.
So, the W4S STP seems like a natural upgrade to the Adcom.
I run the Adcom passive into a Marchand XM-44 -> Maggie MMG's and an Epik Valor sealed 15" sub.
HP/LP set at 60hz/24db slope....works really well in my small room and doesn't bother my neighbors in my duplex
I should get some pics taken and post my system sometime soon...
really enjoy learning and reading on the Agon forum |
