High on Thier List, But Low on Yours

I think krell amps are very harsh and mechanical sounding. This is compared to pass labs, spectral, and hotrod mccormack amps. I can't stand VTL amps. I understand why some people would like them - the cool, neutral, detailed sound. To me they are icy cold and almost disturbing. Much prefer warmer tube amps. I didn't much care for the MIT 750 ref cables I tried, but that was likely a system matching thing. This thread is really a personal taste statement, and should be taken as such. Vote for me!

hey Trelja. VTL actually makes me feel 'chilled' when I listen to it, but I like the ARC stuff. I guess it's splitting hairs. ARC equipment is very accurate, but it does have a warmth to it. I find that using my arc phono stage with my arc amp, I get very 'alive' sound. There is clarity, but also a little extra thrown in. I am in complete agreement that some of the new 'more accurate' tube stuff is just way too sold state sounding for me. What's the point ? I own both tubes and solid state. I can tell you I would rather not have the cost of tubes but do indeed prefer their sound.

Oh, and to add to my 'not all that' list: Expensive CD playback systems. I just don't hear that much difference between a $2-3000 cd player and an $8000 transport/DAC. It's there, but it's probably the worst cost/performance ratio I've heard. I think problem is more the limitations of the format rather than anything that 'nth degree' equipment can do. This is compared to upgrading your speakers or amp.