2. amps-preamps
  3. 184285-182267

Looking for advice, recommendations

I am looking to upgrade my amp.  Current amp is Primaluna Dialogue Premium Integrated.  My speakers are Acoustic Zen Crescendo Mk II.  

I am currently considering two possible upgrade paths:

1.)  Primaluna EVO 400 Integrated  (about $5.5K)

2.) Go separates with a 6SN7 based preamp (such as Sachs) + SS power amp, possibilities would be a GaN Class D, or Benchmark AHB2.  (This would be about $6K with a Peachtree or LSA GaN 350 or Benchmark , to as high as $8.5K with Atma-Sphere Class D amps.)

I think my Dialogue Integrated may be marginal for my speakers.  I am looking for more power, lower output impedance (better drive).  Sonically, I like the sound of tubes.  I want a three dimensional sound, with well defined space around each instrument and vocalist.  Looking for more detail, without harshness.  

Any advice, recommendations would be appreciated.

hifinut51

Showing 1 response by markmuse

markmuse
251 posts
 

Based upon my experience I say your approach of a good tube pre with a GaN based amp is a sound one. Regarding amps, you can't go wrong with either AGD monos or Atma-Sphere monos.

I have two AGD Tempo (stereo amps) to bi-amp my speakers. I tried using just a single Tempo but the imaging is better using two, even if just using one channel of each amp. But don't use them bridged.

I have also had the excellent Atma-Sphere monos. They are slightly more mellow than the AGD amps. 

More to discover