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I've narrowed it down...

So my first venture into tube equipment will be an integrated amp based on the recommendations of this fine group of enthusiasts. I have narrowed the field to the Rogue Audio Tempest III, Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum, the Cayin H-80 and Cary SLI-80.

All of this is based on what I have read and what fits in my budget. The Cary is a little over but for something I think I'll have for a lifetime I'm willing to go a little over...

I will be driving B&W 602S3's until more $$$ are available for something else.

My intent is to listen to vinyl then maybe venture into CD's or digital music. Any feedback or suggestions are appreciated.

Going somewhere to listen to any of these is not an option for me, and room size is undetermined as I am in the process of moving.

Thanks.
botit

Showing 2 responses by clio09

clio09
3,363 posts
 
If you are willing to commit to a new pair of speakers, are you willing to spend $2700 for a set that are flexible enough to be used with tube (SET, PP, OTL) or solid state amps, and still sound outstanding? That can handle a wide range of power output (5 - 500 watts)? That also provide for flexible room placement? If so:

http://audiokinesis.com/product_ak_rhythm-prism.html

If you're willing to go a bit higher:

http://audiokinesis.com/product_ak_prisma.html
clio09
3,363 posts
 
Yes the Atma-Sphere S-30 was used in the voicing of Audiokinesis designs, but IIRC so was NuForce. Duke happens to be a dealer for both brands so he certainly had access to each.

My reasons for recommending these speakers is really about the flexibility and the fact that you can audition many types of amps with little worry as to compatibility. I have run 2 watt 45 and 12 watt EM7 SET amps, 35 watt EL-84 push pull, 70 watt KT-88/EL34 push pull, and 300 watt solid state amps with my speakers and the sound has always been pleasing, if not somewhat different.

I'm sure there are other flexible speaker designs out there and if I were the Op these would be the types of speakers I would focus on. I for one am in the camp that the system should be built around the speakers.
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