2. amps-preamps
  3. 1289589296

How to divide up $4,500, Amp/Speakers

I need a new back-end for my system (amp/speakers) and have around $4,500 to spend on used equipment.

Front end is VPI HR-X, Koetsu RSP, JMW 12.5 arm, Herron VTPH-2.

In this price range I think that an integrated tube amp would be better sonically but I am open to suggestions. My room is small (20x12x7.5) so I am tending toward smaller speakers.

I had a pair of Merlin VSM's long ago and either VSM's or TSM's might work well and also fall in this range used.

Assuming $2,000 used could get the Merlins what would be a good integrated tube amp that works well with them?

Main listening is New Orleans funk, blues, jazz and some classical.
jarrett

Showing 3 responses by jarrett

jarrett OP
38 posts
 
Thanks for the responses.

A number of the integrated amps, like most straight preamps, have far more functionality than I really need.

All I really need is a single input, volume and balance control.

I would prefer to spend my money on better design and parts than on RCA jacks and switches. Any minimalist integrateds out there?

I also had the crazy idea of just driving an amp directly through an stepped attenuator but I don't know if the impedance matches would work and I only have around 600mV from the Herron.
jarrett OP
38 posts
 
Cathode, Sure, I am open to DIY. Who makes full speaker kits?

Milezone, I just sold off Soundlab's and Atma-Sphere and while they sounded great I don't want to revisit this kind of setup due to the fragility of the speakers and the heat from the OTL.
jarrett OP
38 posts
 
Anyone tried Horn Shoppe speakers?
More to discover