Setup: This will be feeding an ARC VS110 which will drive a pair of Vandersteen Quatro loudspeakers.
Sound preferences: Clean and high resolution, but skewing toward tube tonality and away from solid state tonality
Budget: $2,500, but possible to stretch to $3,500 if really necessary
Options: The following are currently available on hifishark, and have piqued my interest:
SP-6
SP-8
SP-9
SP-10
SP-11
LS-25
The SP-6 and SP-8 seem like the best value, delivering quality 80's ARC tube sound, without the cost and bulk of the SP-10 double chassis.
The SP-9 comes up often, and is inexpensive, but seems to have mixed reviews. I'm dubious about the sound quality.
The SP-10 and SP-11 are the clear kings and queens. I could have either for ~$3,500. Besides the cost, I am concerned about the double chassis. It would be awkward to fit into my current setup, though not impossible. In theory I could get a Reference 2, but it would be closer to $4,000, and would really be stretching my budget.
The LS-25 seems to be very well regarded, especially the Mk. 2 which eliminates half the tubes. I'm a bit concerned that it would sound too "solid state" for me, and also it's currently only available with a black faceplate, which I strongly don't prefer. However, it is the most modern option, and offers balanced connections.
Notable exceptions include the LS-5, which, despite being universally praised, is currently unavailable on the market. Similarly, the LS-16 is currently unavailable.
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Please help me narrow down my options!
