2. amps-preamps
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Confusion reigns - tube amp,ss amp, integrated..??

I've been reading a lot of threads here (and on the Audio Asylum) and I am just getting more and more confused.

I am coming from the simple world of SS receiver and separate SS power amp - Rotel gear, as you can see from my Virtual System. I am trying to find a more musical system, but I still need to have a system that can be used for HT.

I am changing out my speakers to Cain & Cain Abbys - single drive (Fostex 166E) high efficiency speakers (95dB.) My Teres turntable is also a keeper, as is my phono stage. These are about the only decisions I have been able to firm up! So, I am building my system around these components.

I need either an integrated amp or separates - pre amp/power amp. I thought tubes would be best for the Abbys, but then again, maybe the pre should be solid state with a tube amp - or is the other way around better? You see how unknowing I am! An integrated amp might be a bit of a compromise, but might also fit my budget better. :-~

This is what I need the system to do: I need to be able to run my CD drive, a DVD drive, my phono stage and a subwoofer, as well as, of course, front speakers. If I end up getting rid of my receiver, an option for rear and center speakers would be a plus, though I may forgo surround sound (5.1) with my new system.

My budget is around $10,000 (gulp) which is both limiting, I realize, and more than I wanted to spend. :rolleyes: I would like this budget to include a new CD-player - I am considering the Musical Fidelity A5 - so I guess my actual amp/preamp budget is around $8000.

Please help me if you can!

Holly
oakiris

Showing 5 responses by oakiris

oakiris OP
206 posts
 
first of all rotel makes fine ss gear. secondly unless you are prepared to give up a lot bass and high frequencies, there are a whole lot of options without buying cain and cain abbeys.
Jaybo - I have no complaints about the Rotel gear I have, I just want something "mo' better!" As for the Abbys, I was completely wowed by their sound - and their looks - when I audtioned them. I am definitely buying them, should have them in my house the first week of November.

Maineiac - The VAC Avatar Super looks like a very nice unit. What receiver are you using?

C123666 - I have read good things about Wright Audio; their phono stage was on my short list before I decided on the Holfi, which I was able to audition locally at Teres Audio. From your comment: "I only use the best NOS/current production parts and you will love the results" it sounds as if you build tube amps....? If so, I would indeed be interested in more info. Also, what "quality CD player" are you suggesting? Either way, I am guessing that I would still need some sort of receiver/processor to match with the amp in order to use my DVD player. Or am I still confused?!? :-~

Thank you all for your responses.

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I am indeed considering getting rid of my rear speakers, and possibly my center, but still would like the sub for movies. Quite a few people have mentioned that just running the front speakers for HT works very well indeed. After all, I don't have a dedicated HT room, so my system's surround sound impact is already compromised!

I haven't seen many tube amps that have a DVD input, however. What are you using, Pdreher?

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Thanks Apt_one - I very much want to hear the music, not the electronics. Your comments are quite convincing. I am especially interested in the Welborne Labs Terraplane 300b - after all, the bubinga wood will match some of the wood on my equipment rack! :rolleyes: Welborne also lists the Cain & Cain speakers as compatible. Since I don't have the skill to put together the kit, I would have to buy the assembled unit.

As for the Audible Illusions pre amps - what is the difference between a "Full-Function Stereo Preamplifier" (the Modulus 3A,) and a "line stage" (the L2.) The L2 appears to be capable of HT pass through to an external processor, but I am beginning to think I don't need that!

Jaybo - I can't remember all of the CDs I heard during my Abby audition, but among them were cuts from: Angelique Kidjo's "Black Ivory Soul," Miles Davis' "doo-bop," and Leonard Cohen's "Ten New Songs."

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I will be able to check out some of the Cary products at a local dealer. I'll have to audition them, Larry.

Briefly, how do they differ from the Rotel sound??

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I have read good things about the Audible Illusions products and they are on my list of components to audition - there is one local dealer here. Thanks, Apt one.

Holly
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