txp1 - I'm wondering the same thing having bought an F-1 edition in 2007 and enjoying it for 4 years. Great amp, I'm thinking about getting another HS model too. Hopefully decooney chimes in.
Cary SLI-80HS modifications
I’m strongly considering purchase of a new integrated amp. The Cary SLI-80HS is at the top of my list and I can’t find much information from people who opted for some of the available modifications — hexfeds, better caps, silver wiring, Greyhill volume control, improved binding posts. I’m leaning toward getting all of them. Opinions?
Also, I’ve read that SS rectifiers can remove some of the tube “magic”. What about in this specific model. I’ve owned a 2009 era SLI-80 for almost 10 years so I am very familiar with the sound and improvements due to rolling tubes. I previously used a Plinius 9200 SS amp but got hooked on the sound of tubes.
BTW, I’m also considering a LTA ZOTL 40+ integrated but am a little concerned about its synergy with my beloved first-order crossover speakers, Meadowlark Osprey Gen 2.
My most used equipment includes Aurender N150 streamer, Chord Qutest DAC with a Hugo M-Scaler, Cardas Golden Reference interconnects, Shunyata power cables and conditioner. Sadly, due to the living room location I must use a very long run of Nordost Super Flatline II cable (27 feet).
I’m looking for improved leading edge on plucked string instruments, especially basses, excellent timbre on everything. 90% of my listening is instrumental jazz, the rest is classic rock.
Showing 10 responses by pehare
A short time ago I spoke with someone on the Cary sales team and they remarked the solid state rectification HS model still has the tube holography and bloom the Signature has. (It would be interesting to find out). They added going with solid state rectification took care of most of the reliability issues they had with the SLI-80. I have fond memories of my F-1 in triode mode on my Coincident Partial Eclipse 2's. Years ago Cary built a special F-1 that was triode only and direct coupled as I rmember. |
@txp1 Yes, I did power up the 1st time w/the bias plug in and once it was warmed up it was a little high just under 80mA so I backed off each channel to 73. Could have been the line voltage variation from Cary's bench and my home. |
My unit decided to quit working after just a few hours:( Sent it back to Cary and it turned out to be a connection came loose on a Solen cap lead. Cary did a great job quickly on the short trip from FL to NC and I have the unit back in a sealed box. It had been over 10 years since I had an amp this big and heavy and my senior bulged disc back unfortuately can't handle it so I've decided to sell it on the other site. Great amp for someone looking. |
@txp1 Cool thanks for the info. Looks like Cary used allen head screws like on the side panels according to manual as a kind poster just responded to your other thread about side panels. |
@txp1 Thanks for the info my unit hasn't sold yet so I may seek some out to fill the cage holes like you did or at least send them to the new owner. FYI, a local friend says the Linlai 6SN7's are really good in his 300sei if and when you decide to roll. |