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CARY SLP 308 & Audio Research SP-16

I recently acquired an AudioResearch VS110 driving B&W Signature 805s. I'm looking for a pre-amp at $2000-3000 new or used. I heard an SLP 308 at upscale audio driving the V12 and Avantgrade speakers delivering wonderfully transparent & delicate sound. Others have suggested the matching SP16. I've talked with folks from AR and highly rec. the SP16. "only give up slight dynamics and bass response comparing to LS 25." Absolute sound had said that the treble of the SP16 had a slight grain in isolation.
I'll listen to it but meanwhile,
Any help is appreciated. THanks.
glai

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glai OP
446 posts
 
Thanks for responding, guys. I liked the Audio Research just as much but ultimately got the Cary. Both were excellent sonically but I liked the vol. control in the Cary better. Two input tubes also allowed for easy tube rolling. I changed the input tubes to Mullard 12UA7s resulting in a minimally dark, smooth sound which I was happy with. Eventually, I'll probably get the SP 16 too. Currently, I've a pair of Nautilius 805s and Signature 805s, Classe 151,
Philips SACD1000 & Rotel cdp 1070.

I think I'm at a point that the limiting factor is at the front end. I want to get the Ayre CX-7. At the same time, I also want the Sonus Faber Cremona Auditor on the auction.

I know the I should switch components only to achieve a certain goal or aspect in sound. Otherwise, I would be running in circles wasting money.

Any opinions? (The audio-bug got me pretty bad. huh)
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