2. amps-preamps
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Component matching expertise - how do you do it?

I tend to rely on a dealer and expertise when it comes to pairing components.  And with what I read and other peoples experiences.

I am incredibly impressed when I read commentary by people who really know what they're doing when it comes to matching components.  Factors such as impedance, curves, amp power, and recognizing that some components don't get along with other components and keeping in mind specifications which are inherently complicated to really understand.

What are some of the key things people in the know look at when they are deciding between components being Incorporated into their systems?  

emergingsoul

Showing 1 response by sls883

sls883
692 posts
 

I'm not the expert that you mention, but I can tell you how I arrived at my current system. As @ghdprentice mentioned, I sought out components that I felt would satisfy my personal tastes.

I first selected my speakers based on prior experience with Von Schweikert.  I liked what I had, but I wanted a better version of them.  I spoke to Von Schweikert and they assured me that the Endeaver RE would be a big step up from my VR-4s.

I next looked for an amp.  As with my speakers, I liked my aging Coda amp, but wanted an improvement.  I consulted Doug Dale with Coda and he recommended the V1 version of the Continuum No 8 as a good pairing with my speakers.

Next came the preamp.  This time, I veered away from c-j and went with a Linear Tube Audio MicroZotl.  I spoke to owners of them and it appeared to have the aspects that I liked from c-j, but an improvement in other areas.

Some of it is luck, but I ended up with a system that I like.  I've tweaked things with different tubes, cables, etc.  

Nothing really scientific about my approach, but I ended up with something that I enjoy.

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