2. amps-preamps
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Help choosing an amp for Thiel 2.7s

I just upgraded from Thiel 2.2s to Thiel 2.7s and my source is both vinyl (VPI Scout) and digital (PeachTree Idac) through a Classe Model 6 Preamp and B&K EX 442 AMP – both recently recapped. I am looking to replace either the amp or both amp and pre-amp. My first trial was with a pair of Bel Canto REF500M. In many ways they sound amazing – tighter bass, more extended highs, much blacker background. My only hang-up is that they seem to lack some of the body (midrange presence) of the B&K. As an example when playing Stevie Ray Vaughn my daughter asked why the guitar had moved so far to the background. Is there any way to have my cake and eat it too – or are these necessary trade-offs at my budget -- $5000 for the amp?

Any advice would be very appreciated
kadlec

Showing 1 response by cal3713

cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
I had 2.4s and compared the McIntosh MC402, Pass X250.5, and XA-30.5. The 30.5 was the best option, natural tone, great textures, and beautiful soundstaging/imaging. The 250.5 had a bit of midrange harshness that didn't sound right. I was warned of that by Kent at Pass Labs (he suggested the 350.5) and tried it anyway, ended up selling the X250.5 and keeping the XA30.5.

I heard that VAC used to be voiced with Thiels. If I was going the tube route, I'd try either VAC or AR. If I was going SS, I'd stick with Pass.
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