JRDG Continuum 500.
It will not color the music, but let the source (cd) put the sonic signum at the event. The amp is extended but more musical than te wyred4sound sti-1000. It will not add or withdraw. It also has an internal PFC-1 (power factor controller) which feed preamp and both the monoblocks.
It is nicely built with a very refined feel and look ;) |
Let's say <$3K. You didn't think it was going to be that easy, did you? :) |
Two different directions. A Naim Nait 5i would complement the speaker qualities you describe; it's fast and very organic. There are plenty of write-ups on this one. (The Nait XS might give you more of the same; I haven't heard it, though.) The PS Audio C-100 is a great little amp--very clean and transparent. Not as much info out there on this one, but the reviews I've read are accurate, imo, and it's an excellent deal. Both are well under your budget, new or used. (The C-100 would have to be used, it's discontinued; but PS Audio's support is superb.) I think either would serve your music well, depending on which presentation you prefer. |
A bit suprised with your Nait recommendation - I was thinking the Naim stuff would be too lean/bright/thin, am I wrong? I haven't read anything about the PS-Audio, so will definitely check it out - thanks! BTW, do you listen to similar music? |
I have a Nait 5i -- a big no on lean, bright, thin. But it's not transparent or detailed and doesn't throw a big soundstage, so if that's your thing, look elsewhere. It's strong on rhythm and putting the music together. I do listen to some electronic music -- more Eno, Kraftwerk, and Hot Chip than Massive Attack (although I do put MA on once in awhile). |
For electronic music you need fast amp, so, SET would be my choice, especially cos your speakers are that sensitive, check CARY CAD 300SEI, there is one on sale right now, check it out. Why I mentioned this amp, well, cos I own one and I love trance. |
@Afranta: I do want a soundstage with decent width and especially depth, don't want to listen to a "wall of sound". Sounds like the nait isn't for me. But based on what i've read, the Ps audio sounds very interesting to me.
@Maxmad: yes i think the amp does need to be fast. But the reviews I read on the Cary actually called out speed as one of the areas it was lacking -- was there a revision to this amp at some point, or did you roll the tubes to get it sounding how you like?
What do you guys think of the hybrids like the Pathos Classic? How would it compare to the PS Audio C-100 for instance? |
I'm listening to the Creek Evolution 5350 to B&W CM1's and DEF Tech supercube 1 and Frank Zappa right now. In two words, I LIKE.
Vin |
Cary dont have any issues with speed, its what you compare it with, o.k.?
Your budget is less than USD 3000, so, if you can find better amp than Cary within that budget, let me know pls.
Yes, I am tube addicted and roll some, so, if you make that step in SET 300B based world, you have to be prepared to spend some cash for it, but for which tube based amp doesnt, pls tell me!
My advice to you, just try Cary amp in one of the local dealers shop and decide for yourself. He maby not the fastest, but he is not the slow one for sure.
Take your speakers with you and pair with it. |
@Maxmad: I of course realize that it depends what you are comparing to, and generally if one person mentions a particular quality I won't really believe it. Anyhow, I definitely appreciate your input since you do love trance :) I'm also very interested to experience a tube amp, it's very tempting...
I would love to take my speakers and properly audition equipment in a store, but I live in New Mexico, and as far as I can tell there aren't any hifi stores around :( |
There are other tube based amps around that will give you the quality for less. One of such is Almarro 318B, which you can hit used, if you quick enough, for a nice price. Just check some info online about their products. I have an Ausie friend who owns one and he is very impressed, however I never tried any of Almarro amps myself, so, take it like it is. Also, from trusty source, I heard a lot of good things about Almarro 205 model, but if you get that quality as from 318B, dont think so, however for that money that they are selling used, you just dont risk much, cos Almarro amps re-sell easy as you can put them on.
You should be aware of the fact that tubes getting hot and there for amps need extra space.
What ever you will choose it still be kind of risky, cos you cant try them before purchase, thats why reading the feedbacks from users are much important, but like I said, Cary and Almarro arent just brands, these are one of the best in the industry. |
It's already gone, sold in <1 day .. impressive. The review at 6moons was equally strong. I would like a remote though...
I will have to struggle with this for a bit longer, but I appreciate all the great suggestions and information. |
fwiw....by ALL MEANS test tubes! with that much $ a tube amp will last a lifetime and your tastes might get more 'organic' as you age. ss last a long time too but imo if you grow away from electronic sounds you may very well realize the joy of natural instruments and vocals with tubes. just my opinion of course. |
I definitely will, just not for the reasons you mention ;)
I'm actually thinking of holding of for a month or so and going to CES in January since it's not too far... |
NAD all the way...alot of hi=end gear is too polite and laid back...NAD is BIG sound...dynamic...with very good controlled bass...especailly the newer gear...more nuetral...good luck...Massive Attack MEzzanine is awesome... |
