2. amps-preamps
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BAT, ARC or Ayre for my Genesis 500's?

I have had these speakers for more than 10 years and still love them (though I would love to hear some other full range speakers with ribbon tweeters, like Dali, but no dealer anywhere near me). My best sound from them was with an Audio Research VT100 Mk III. At the time I used a BAT VK30SE preamp also. In my past I had an Ayre V100 with Vienna Acoustics Beethovens, and that was also a sound I loved. I currently use an Electrocompanient integrated with my Genesis 500 while I decide what to do next. I love tubes with these speakers. Should I try a BAT tubed amp, a newer generation ARC amp, or a newer Ayre for what I felt was a very tube like warmth with the Beethovens? Not sure whether to look for a used ARC VT100 or try one of the newer tube amps from ARC. Or go with a BAT amp? I've only heard their preamps, never their amps. Any insights or recommendations for me? If I go with current models I will try to find a local dealer, but will use this site for older used gear.
sc53
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
They say that since the bass amp relieves the main amp of those duties that selecting an amp is easier. I found the opposite with my 350's and needed a strong amp just to keep up to the bass without a "hole" in the midbass. A Plinius SA-100 served well. The 500 is even tougher, with a fairly low impedance dip.

For tubes, consider VTL MB300/450's or Manley Neo's. Used to do a lot of shows together.
sc53 OP
718 posts
 
Well after a lot of pondering I decided to go with an all-BAT tube system: VK55SE monoblocks and VK32SE preamp. Victor of BAT and Gary (?) of Genesis were consulted and felt these amps would be a good match with my 500's. I have placed my order with Anthony Perrotta and hope to receive the amps within the next couple of weeks. Impressions to follow!
groovyah
3 posts
 
Hi,
have driven my Gen500/501 fist with a German Amplifier (solid state) named Audionet Amp1. Later I switched to Vincent´s mono amplifier 991plus (class a). Both amps matched good to the Genesis. There was no bass gap at all. Very powerful, deep and substantial bass. Also nice midrange and clear hights. Never tryed a tube amp.
Actually I need to find somebody who can fix the loudspeakers amp. Every tip is welcome.
Kind regards,
Andreas, Germany
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