CAT versus Berning

I thought I would try to revive this question. Only chnage isthat I now have the Joule LA-150MKII preamp, I found the need for a tube pre because of the BAM unit that comes with my Merlin Speakers. So CAT verus Berning, any opinions.

Were you ever able to audition the Berning?

The ARS will be used in summer, when the CAT runs to hot for my comfort. I'm thinking along the lines of Clio09, that the slightly warm Joule pre would work real well with the Berning (cool running), and that I could possibly sell the CAT -- if, I did not find the Berning to be a step down in any significant way. Owning three amps goes against my grain, I a little excessive, but I do have limits.

Jafox, you have pretty much done ii for me, I won't be giving up the CAT. I'm very interested in any tube recommendations you could make (I'm using stock), and what supplier you trust for them.

Tubegroover, you are right abou the CAT, but boy is it hot in summer, one reason I got the ARS, which in terms of synergy, is really ideally matched with the Merlins - I can't see changing my speakers any time soon, or until Bobby figures out some wat to improve them. You also state a deeper truth, when I come back from a live jazz concert, I realize how far off equipment is from live, at first I feel a little disappointed, but then I realize that reproduced music, on its own terms, has its own beauty and certainly pleasure, but like you say - it is not live, and never will be.

John, got your e-mail, thanks for all the interesting ideas.