2. amps-preamps
  3. 193638-170405

Help needed to make system better, please


I currently am mostly happy with my current system. I have moved my Daedalus Audio DA-1 speakers back into main spot. I run Simaudio Moon 740p balanced into Simaudio Moon 760a. Quiet, transparent, plenty of power. Good soundstage and imaging. Could use SLAM, PRAT, or dynamics. And a little treble extension. I want more meat on the bone sound. I know tube preamps deliver more rich, or “meat on the bone” sound, but usually are slower with less bass. I was told to try Pass Labs amp, but think they have less resolution and slight distortion. So, I am looking for direction. I was told BAT preamp has better dynamics. Thinking about a BAT VK-53se running balanced into Simaudio amp. Would this be forward move, or sideways? Definitely don’t want to go backwards. I can listen to my system for hours. No fatigue. Just feels like something is slightly missing. I do like dynamics, but I also like transparency and dead quiet background. Any and all suggestions are appreciated and welcome. Please let me know if you have moved on from 740p. What did you go for, and why? Is Pass Labs amp going to be a positive thing? I don’t want to keep going through gear. I am close now, just wanted that little richness and PRAT. 

sputz

Showing 1 response by yoyoyaya

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yoyoyaya
918 posts
 

@OP, I previously owned a Sim Moon P5/W5. I kept preamp for over ten years, but changed the power amp more quickly as it had more of the slightly dry sterile sound you mention.

As regards Pass, you need to give them a bit of time to adjust to their presentation when coming from a more "transistory" sound. The amps have accurate pace and rhythm and present detail accurately when compared to live music.

You get what you pay for in terms of quality - the more expensive models are better. It is worth listening to the XP-27 preamp in particular and it would be interesting for you to try one with your existing power amp as a starting point.

It you want a half way house between Sim Moon and Pass - have a listen to Gryphon.

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