I've found the Plinius 8200 mkII to be anything but "dry." See my review. I'd gladly answer any questions about it.
Done with integrated Preamp for Plinius SA102...
I have a new pair of Sonus Faber Cremona. Very nice. And I have decided to listen to a couple of integrated amps to eventually replace my Plinius 8150: the new Concentra from Jeff Rowland and the new Logos from Pathos Acoustics:
Plinius 8150:
+ quite an open sound and good dynamics.
- a bit dry, need some extra warmth.
JR Concentra II:
+ incredible texture, beatiful mid-range and LOTS of air.
- the highs are a bit aggressive (higher piano notes) and it's too expensive (at least, in Europe)
PA Logos:
+ sweet highs.
- this amp was a major disapointment for me. The sound is too dark and too closed for my taste.
I have two options here: the new Plinius 8200 mkII but ONLY if it's warmer than the 8150/8200 mkI. Is it? Guess not... Actually, I am starting to think that the Cremonas do need separated components! And I have the chance to get a Plinius SA-102 for a good price. But I would still need a not-too-expensive preamp. Maybe tubes, I don't know. What are your suggestions? Thanks.
Plinius 8150:
+ quite an open sound and good dynamics.
- a bit dry, need some extra warmth.
JR Concentra II:
+ incredible texture, beatiful mid-range and LOTS of air.
- the highs are a bit aggressive (higher piano notes) and it's too expensive (at least, in Europe)
PA Logos:
+ sweet highs.
- this amp was a major disapointment for me. The sound is too dark and too closed for my taste.
I have two options here: the new Plinius 8200 mkII but ONLY if it's warmer than the 8150/8200 mkI. Is it? Guess not... Actually, I am starting to think that the Cremonas do need separated components! And I have the chance to get a Plinius SA-102 for a good price. But I would still need a not-too-expensive preamp. Maybe tubes, I don't know. What are your suggestions? Thanks.