2. amps-preamps
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Best tube integrated--Cary SLI-80, or?

I'm thinking of replacing the Krell KAV 300i in my 2nd system (I know, it's not the most musical-sounding component in the world), to drive my B&W CDM1-SE's. Having become a tube addict, & kind of always wanting a Cary amp of some sort, I'm thinking of the SLI-80.

Questions: the latest version of the SLI-80 just came out; I'm thinking it's probably hard to find used as yet. Does anyone have any knowledge of how it compares with earlier versions? And, I have an older model VTL ST-85 around......I could either sell that, & put the $$ towards the Cary, or buy a used tube pre-amp to use with the VTL.

Any advice would be appreciated!
steveaudio

Showing 4 responses by leafs

leafs
414 posts
 
The Rogue Tempest is every bit as good if not better.I auditioned the SLI-80.I went with Rogue seperates instead.
leafs
414 posts
 
Marchman,have you heard the Rogue.You dont state you have.I heard the Cary for 10 + hours on 7/8 seperate occasons.Had the dealer allowed me a home demo i probably would of bought it.In the end things worked out for the better because i got a chance to Audition the Rogue and went back to listen to the Cary one last time.No contest.
So for you to state they are not in the same league leads me to belive you have not heard the Rogue.Cause if you had you would not make that statement.They are in the same league.Both very well built and both great sounding.
I prefered the Rogue.
leafs
414 posts
 
March It was a stock unit on the dealers shelf.I would love to hear what my Rogue 120 could sound like with 500 worth of NOS and Svet kt-88.For now I love them with stock tubes.
Have you put your tubes in the Tempest and compered.
leafs
414 posts
 
Marchman,I tried 2 different sets of the Radiotechnique with the date codes that Kevin recomends.Both where purchased locally and fortunatly I was able to return them.They where just plain noisy.I wnet with Mullards instead.this is in the Rogue Preamp.I have been thinking of trying some in my 120 Mono,s that is 12au7.I have the stock ones in it know.
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