Kharma 3.2 to MidiGrand Upgade???


Anyone have experience in upgrading from the 3.2 CRM enigma to the Midi Grand Ceramiques w enigma?

What improvements/benefits can be had and you've experienced? Very interested in what is possible with low powered tube amps, specifically Lamm ML2.1's etc.

On paper the Midis are more efficient. Are they easier to drive than the 3.2's or does their impedance dip more significantly than with the 2 ways? Also interested in feedback regarding room size, bass integration, etc.

I'm interested also in any comments regarding the new ceramique sub and if its necessary / integrates well with the midis. I am seeking to be able to reach realistic symphonic levels with content loaded classical music and heavy electronica.
owl

Showing 4 responses by rcupka

I've tried a few preamp/amp combinations but none of those mentioned. Pre's have included ARC Ref 2 Mk.II, Joule LA-150 and Lamm L2. Amps have been Bryston, Plinius (while waiting for Joule Grand Marquis), Grand Marquis and Lamm ML-1.1.

IMO, the Kharma's can sound fabulous with a variety of less expensive electronics. Of course, if you want to extract EVERYTHING they are capable of you'll have to pay accordingly.

Ultimately, I chose the Lamm combo but the Joule set-up was a very close second.

BTW, I have the sub haven't found any integration problems at all. The sound is quite magical.

Maybe this truly great speaker doesn't get the rave postings anymore because it's getting "long in the tooth" and isn't the speaker du jour. Let's hope Kharma doesn't do anything to it's design for the sake of marketing.
Howie, My response was only intended to make RMaurin aware of Tenor's current situation and the uncertainty of future service/support for this product.

My comments on marketing was aimed at the vast majority of the industry, not only Tenor.

I had the pleasure of speaking to the guys at Tenor on several ocassion in the past and they appeared very committed to providing high levels of customer service.
Unfortunately, it hasn't worked out for them.
Frank: I agree that virtually everyone I've met in this hobby is a class act. Besides, it's fun to have people (fellow hobbyists) over to listen and share experiences.
We can sit here forever and pluck away on our keyboards but I'll take a "real human encounter" anyday.
Rmaurin: My only word of caution would be that Tenor Audio
appears to be another one of those high end company's
"du jour" that's rumored to be "belly up". Service would be a concern to me.

So much of the high end is marketing and "sizzle" to create new demand.

I own Lamm ML-1.1's with Kharma 3.2's and am very happy.It's also comforting to know I can call Vladimir anytime for advise and support.