I feel it is time to upgrade my 1977 system.......


I have been enjoying my Pioneer Spec 1 and Pioneer Spec 2 system for a very long time and I have been having issues that have exhausted my patience and nearest shop is 3 hours (each way) from home.  I only listen to my Music Hall TT that pleases me.  My speakers are from 1976 Altec Lansing Model 19 that have been freshend up and I love the sound, I guess because I have been so accustomed to them and I'm sure there are many diff speaker options but for now I wish to continue with the Altec's.  My quest is to replace my amp and preamp.........I have some logistical problems to deal with.  I have ONE!!!! location for new gear, a shelf that is 51 inchs long and 18 inches from a wall to the front edge of the shelf, shelf will handle 200lbs.  My Pioneer amp has ample power and I would like to remain close to the same amout of power.  If you have some ideas for me I would love to hear them.  Not sure how I feel about tube gear since I have no background at all so I (think) I'd rather not go that route, but feel free to change my mind.  Budget not to exceed 18k including cables.  I know there is a wealth of knowledge here unfortunately I have very little to offer so I thank you greatly in advance......

glm911

Showing 2 responses by kahlenz

Go ahead and splurge on a Luxman SQ-N150 Tube Integrated Amplifier.  $3300 and plenty of power for your Model 19s.  Looks cool and takes up very little space!
Spend some time auditioning speaker cables, power cables, and perhaps a dedicated circuit and power conditioner (if needed).  I would look at Shunyata.  And don't forget room conditioning!
I don't know what your table/arm/cart is, but you will have plenty of $ left over to upgrade if desired.

Note:  I ran my gray box Altec VOTT A-7s with a Dynamo ST-70 (modified and upgraded with a modified PAS 3x) for years and loved it!  Nice juicy tube sound!  The Luxman is much more accurate and less "tubey", but if I had your speakers I would certainly audition it.