Classe vs. Sonic Frontiers

Thank you for all of your responses. Regarding the ARC equipment, I have priced their stuff out and they are way too expensive. Sonic Frontiers stuff seems reasonable on the net, and actually I recently saw an add for VTL 2.5 linestage. If anybody had any opinions on this unit vs. the Sonic I would love to hear. I have no local VTL dealer. Thanx again...

If you would like to already fogus on buying Sonic Frontiers Line-1 just go ahead and get one for yourself and that's good thing. if you ask, should it improve your system? I'm not so sure but I really think it should sound better overall as I did audition both pre. I prefered Sonic Frontiers Line-1 over Classe`5 pre.

I have a Sonic Frontiers line 2, my friend had a VTL 2.5 we tried with many various systems. He sold the VTL at a great loss, I still have my pre-amp and plan to keep it for quite some time.

I am not familiar with the Classe pre, but do own a Line 1. The SF preamps in stock form can best be described as very neutral, with none of the warmth typically associated with tube equipment. With an appropriate NOS tube change, however, these pieces can come alive. At present prices, they are also a wonderful value for the quality you get. Being unfamiliar with your Proacs and your front end, I cannot say how the stock combination would sound out.

O.K thanks again everyone. The response seems unanimous. The line 1 is a steal!!! Now, how do I know that it will drive my Classe amp? I am unfamillier w/tubes and I heard that one must match pre-power carefully. Any ideas?