CARY CAD120s clipping?

Amp clipping is dependent on the speaker load and the current requirements; therefore, there is no simple answer. An inefficient low impedance speaker will cause your amp to clip easier when compared to a high efficient high impedance speaker for the same amount spl. The nice thing about tube amps is that they “soft clip” or they simple run out of power and dynamics become compressed and the soundstage collapse etc.

The front meters are used to set tube bias. You will notice that the meters will move as you increase the volume. This is normal as bias current increases with volume increases. The front meters do not indicate clipping.

A lot of users report great results matching the SLP-98 with the 120S.

If the Cary SLI-80 did not work too well with your Totems, then the Cary 120S won't be that much better. Don't forget that sound pressure (loudness measured in db) is logarithmic, therefore, there is not much difference between a 40wpc and 60wpc amplifier.

There are a lot of Totem owners who use a SS amp with a tube preamp and report excellent results.

I agree with Polk432 that separates “generally” perform better than integrated amps, but separates are still bound by ohm’s law. If your gripe with the SLI-80 was a lack of detail and transparency then separates may be the ticket. If you feel that the SLI-80 lacked drive, dynamics and an ability to control the woofer, the 120S may not resolve the issue.

The SLP-98 can be configured in many ways to suit your particular application. The SLP-98P has a very good moving magnet phono stage. It can also be configured internally with Lundahl step-up transformers to accommodate most MC cartridges. You can also get the SLP-98 directly coupled by by-passing Audio 1 coupling caps. There is also a F1 version which offers upgraded caps, wiring, diodes and some improvements. A fully tricked out Cary SLI-98P F1, MC, DC is extremely desirable.