2. amps-preamps
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CAT versus Berning

I have a CAT JL2 amplifier driving Merlin VSM-MX speakers. I'm considering changing to a Berning ZH270. Anyone have experience of these two amps either in the context of a Merlin or other speakers. I am using a Placette Passive (after a few years of the CAT SL1). I have no good reason for changing, as the JL2s are exceptionally good, but as we all know, part of the hobby is change, I just don't want to go backwards.
pubul57

Showing 2 responses by clio09

clio09
3,372 posts
 
The only advice I can offer is that when I owned my LA-100 MkIII I considered matching it with either the Berning or a Joule amp. This was based on much of the research I did here and other members comments. I have seen where a few people use the Berning with Merlin speakers and of course Joule and Merlin are a pretty classic combination. Of course all this is irrelevant to me now as I did an about face and went in a totally different direction with both preamp and amp. I hope this helps.
clio09
3,372 posts
 
I was only able to audition the Joule amps (with the LAP-150) and Merlin speakers at RMAF last year and chatted with Bobby P. quite a bit in the process. Overall, while I enjoyed the sound, it was a bit too warm for my tastes. My thought in using a Berning with the Joule preamp was the comments I read about the Berning being a very neutral amp. I thought this would compliment the LA-100 MkIII which tends to be a tad more neutral than most tube preamps, but still has a lush and warm sonic signature.
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