Int Amp for Thiel CS 3.7

Have you considered T+A? The PA 3000 HV?

@thieliste   I agree with @audiotroy in his post above. The only way to truly determine what will work best for you, is to try the amps you are interested in, in your own system.

Early in this thread, I made the recommendation to consider T+A and specifically the PA 3000 HV, because used or demo units can be had for less than your budget and I believe they will deliver what you are looking for. Used or demo may be more difficult with the PA 3100 HV since it is a newly released component, and is likely to come in above your budget, even in used condition.

I recently went through a lengthy and thorough evaluation of a number of amps in my own system and the T+A PA 3100 HV was my clearly preferred choice over my Pass (separates), Lyric Audio, Mastersound, and Ypsilon integrated amps. A trip to NYC/NJ fell through which unfortunately meant I was unable to audition the Gryphon 300, Vitus SIA-025, and Grandinote Essenza integrated amps in dealer setups.

I also had the opportunity to listen to the Thiel CS 5i speakers driven by a mix of Ayre and Krell amplification in @dlcockrum 's system. Having heard these speakers in person makes me comfortable recommending the T+A amplification components for your CS 3.7s.

I also second @audiotroy 's description of the T+A components.

If you have specific questions, feel free to ask here or PM me.

All the best with your search.

@thieliste  You are welcome.

When I compared the Ypsilon Phaethon to the T+A PA 3100 HV, I really liked the Ypsilon integrated amp. Quite good, but different. I would have had to swap in tubes (not many choices) and possibly change cabling and (perhaps) other components to deliver the synergy and performance I want.

Essentially, I was contemplating bringing it to where the T+A already was (within my system)...and this finalized my choice.

Recently, a speaker cable change and a new power conditioner have made a Significant difference in how the Lyric Audio Ti140 Mk2 integrated amp and Pass Separates are performing. Had I THIS level of performance with the Pass gear and then with the Lyric, I probably would have stopped there. The Lyric Audio amp performance is especially remarkable.

I encourage you to try out different amplification components, realizing that system synergies are so important. All the best.

@audiotroy  Dave, can you explain what you mean by "the same comments also apply to their gear."  Thanks.

The T+A amp just went in system Tuesday afternoon, and is going through break in...I will report back (via another thread) on my findings after having about two weeks on the new amp.