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Considering simplifying my system... talk me down (or whatever)

I few weeks ago, I turned eighty.  I don't know how that happened to me, but it did, so I suppose I've officially entered Geezerhood.  Although I'm now ancient, I am anything but deaf.  I have been gifted with extraordinary hearing throughout my life and it continues to this day... I love music (my wife is a professional pianist), and I have enjoyed my current system for several years.

That said, I have been considering simplifying my system by selling my current line stage preamp, phono preamp, and power amplifier (Sonic Frontiers SFL-2, Sonic Frontiers SFP, and Audio Research VT-100, respectively), and replacing the three with a single integrated amp.  

To my ears, this system is extraordinary.  These pieces drive what may be among the best Klipschorns on the planet: 1972 K-horns, modified with Martinelli tractrix mid horns with TAD2001 drivers, JBL 2404 tweeters, and Al Klappenberger's extreme slope networks (20db/octave).  I'll be keeping these until I need some nursing home money (!)

The last time I visited the Klipsch factory (in Hope, Arkansas!), they were using a Cayin something-or-other in their listening room... it was glorious, I think one of those would do quite nicely for me.

Perhaps there is no logic at all to this "simplifying" idea.  I've just been thinking that sooner or later we will find ourselves in a different living situation and perhaps simpler might be better.  So, I'm leaving it  to the brain trust here to talk me down.

Have a nice weekend, y'all
128x128pinkyboy
smrex13
645 posts
 
I don't know what your finances permit, but you might just try something in home for a while before you sell any of your current gear.  Several online dealers have 30-day return policies, and you can always buy a used component and then resell it if it's not an improvement over what you have.  My personal suggestion would be the Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP with KT150 tubes.  One of the advantages of the Primaluna is that it's auto-biasing, and it take a wide range of tubes.  Regardless of what you do, enjoy the journey!
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dbphd
1,628 posts
 
I'm 83.5 and have been working on downsizing with limited success for several years.  The real downsized setup is an Ayre A7e integrated, Codex DAC with microRendu that plays files sent via Ethernet from a Mac Mini by Roon.  The speakers are KEF LS50s.  The sort of downsized setup is Ayre QX-5 digital hub that plays files sent via Ethernet from an iMac, KX-5 DSD disco player, KX-5/20 preamp, and VX-5/20 amp.  The speakers are KEF Ref 1s.  I think the ultimate downsize when we move to a local retirement complex will be a merger of the two:  Ayre QX-5 for streaming, DX-5 DSD disco player, A7E or AX-5 integrated, KEF Ref 1s.
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jdl57
37 posts
 
Unless you plan on moving it, what could be simpler than doing nothing?
sns
3,203 posts
 
I've gone down a similar road with the modified Klipshorns, tractrix horns, changed out all drivers and internal wiring. I went with Crites crossovers, which I modded with Jupiter VT, Audyn True Copper Max capacitors, all Duelund wiring, point to point wiring, binding posts.  Klipschorns are certainly magical when modded and used with proper partnering equipment!
As for downsizing, I'd be careful. Not saving a whole lot of complication simply changing out integrated for separates. I'm getting near retirement age and my system has grown more complicated with computer digital now being my main source. I have an incredible mess of various digital pieces of equipment, interconnecting wire and linear power supplies. It seems I love the stimulus of the steep learning curve diy computer audio requires.
Perhaps someday when physical limitations intrude, I may have to simplify. I just wonder if you're really seeking to simplify or maybe just wanting to try out something new. I suspect your system is already pretty optimized, many changes will only be lateral. My only advice is to try out a SET amp if you're insistent on change. SET amps are simply wonderful with Klipschorns, bring out all the best attributes of Klipschorns.  Illusion of real performers in room, wow!  Good luck with whatever direction you take.
b_limo's avatar
b_limo
2,274 posts
 
Keep it for as long as possible!  Rest assured that if you do have to downsize, there are many fine options no matter which route you take, and that will be another chapter in your audiophile journey. You ought to be excited actually.  You have a great system already and all you need to do now is enjoy it.  When the time comes to move on, well that will be an exciting journey as well.
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