Bob. I ran a Naim HiCap/62/140 for over 10 years and had really bought into the PRAT mantra/cult. Sadly, it turns out. About a year ago I sold it all rather than pay what I consider to be far too much money for either a "recap" of my equipment or the new line of electronics. I auditioned several systems including the 202/200 with a Flatcap and XPS. I finally settled on an Audio Research 100.2 and a SP16 with phono. IMHO the Naim is simply no longer a good value for money. Back in the days when I got my stuff they built high quality, affordable gear that had limited applicability (driving classic British two-ways, for example). Now their stuff is priced beyond belief and, while the sound remains quite good, there is better stuff out there that can drive any speaker you want to run with. My ARC set up clearly trounces what Naim currently offers and for less money. I know I may piss some people off here but the whole PRAT thing is absurd. Naim has managed to cultivate this niche within the land of audiophile nervosa with clever marketing and a dedicated (or should I say "committed" sales force). Have no fear--turn away from Naim without regret. They have lost their way and will never return.
Linn/Naim user seeks advice on tube pre/ss amp
All--
I've been a Linn/Naim user forever--OK, since 1983. I've always loved how the various permutations of the gear I've owned has played music, and sounded.
However, I am interested in experimenting with a tube preamp and perhaps a solid state amp, based on a terrific demonstration of a CJ PV-9 driving (I think) a Krell KSA-80. I recall folks saying a tube pre matched with a SS amp can do wonders, and I'd like to try.
My initial thought is to find a CJ PV-9, based on my experience of it years ago--it simply sounded fantastic. What would a good match be as far as power amps went? Budget is probably a maximum of $2,000.00.
Thoughts welcomed. Oh--sources are either a Meridian 506.20 or Naim CDS-1, or a Linn LP12/Lingo2/Basik Plus (I know, I know.....) and an AT 440ML. Speakers currently are Linn Kabers, which can be power hogs.
TIA,
Bob
I've been a Linn/Naim user forever--OK, since 1983. I've always loved how the various permutations of the gear I've owned has played music, and sounded.
However, I am interested in experimenting with a tube preamp and perhaps a solid state amp, based on a terrific demonstration of a CJ PV-9 driving (I think) a Krell KSA-80. I recall folks saying a tube pre matched with a SS amp can do wonders, and I'd like to try.
My initial thought is to find a CJ PV-9, based on my experience of it years ago--it simply sounded fantastic. What would a good match be as far as power amps went? Budget is probably a maximum of $2,000.00.
Thoughts welcomed. Oh--sources are either a Meridian 506.20 or Naim CDS-1, or a Linn LP12/Lingo2/Basik Plus (I know, I know.....) and an AT 440ML. Speakers currently are Linn Kabers, which can be power hogs.
TIA,
Bob