Getting the Upgrade Bug Again

Tls49 Thanks for the input. Yes - I am currently running the B&W 803 Diamonds on the 4 ohm tap. I'm going to try some KT 120's in the interim.

Zd542 - The PrimaLuna has plenty of power for my speakers. I don't think I would need more power.

Xti16 - Stock tubes right now with about 150 hours on them. Swapping tubes is an excellent suggestion.

Thanks!

Xti16 - still running stock EL 34's. Not sure who PrimaLuna sources them from but probably Chinese.

Zd542 -Thanks so much for all the great info. There is plenty to ponder for sure! I can audition the CJ gear at home with my speakers. I will also do some investigation on the recommended components.

I just ordered a Luxman 505ux. We shall see how it performs. With a 60 day return policy from Music Direct,I have nothing to lose.

I have been running the Luxman for a few hours now. It is showing some promise. I now understand what you guys were saying about the B&Ws needing more power. They sound very different.

I can't wait to hear what these speakers will sound like when the amp is broken in.

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Abrew19 - to coin a phrase "you don't know, what you don't know", that would describe my experience with the B&W's. The Luxman has made a huge difference. I will be keeping my PrimaLuna integrated and will be on the lookout for a pair of speakers that will be compatible with that amp.

After listening to the Luxman for a few weeks, I have decided that while there is an improvement, the B&W's still don't sound right. Luxman sent back and B&W's sold this morning. On a new quest for a more compatible speaker for my beloved PrimaLuna.

Thanks Roscoeiii. On the surface my approach may look a bit backwards but I should have left well alone. I know that I am extremely happy with my PrimaLuna integrated amp. am also happy with my sources and interconnects. The "updgrade" to B&W 803s was a big mistake (as others have pointed out). The only variable that I need to address now will be tube friendly speakers.

Thanks for the suggestions! Keep them coming. I will be trying Totem Element Earth and Reference 3A Grand Veena BE's on home trial basis next week.

Siox - yes, this thread has "morphed" into a speaker-related one. It certainly wasn't by design!

Just bought a Plinius Hautonga amp. The B&Ws will be happy.

Hi Abrew19 - I did (foolishly) sell them. I auditioned over a dozen speakers last week and for some reason, I am hooked on the B&W sound. I just ordered a some 804 Diamonds. They will work better for me in my smaller room plus a bit easier to move around!

B&W's arrived last week and I have been breaking them in with the PrimaLuna. The Plinius Hautonga amp came in yesterday and it pairs perfectly with the 804 Diamonds! I got in about 6 hours of listening last night as was very impressed with it.

Thanks for all your advice and suggestions. I have placed the PL up for sale on Audiogon. If I can't get my price, I will use it for a second system as the bug is likely to "bite" again soon!