2. amps-preamps
  3. 167144-113426

Modwright KWI200 vs Kinki Studio EX-M1+

I am trying to decide between Modwright KWI200 (8 years old) and a new Kinki Studio EX-M1+ amp.  Currently have Magnepan LRS, Gemme Katana Itokawa, and Zu Dirty Weekend speakers (all with with JL Audio sub) in rotation.  Listen to vinyl, CD, or streaming from Node 2i.  Mostly listen to 60, 70, 80, 90's and current rock (and folk) music but blues and jazz mixed in.  Any opinions appreciated.
twister89

Showing 2 responses by jackd

jackd
1,078 posts
 
I am a big fan of Dan's gear and in the past have owned several pieces but in this case I would chose the EX-M1+.  I have owned one for almost a year and think it is a great amp.  Owned an earlier EX-M1 also.
jackd
1,078 posts
 
@arafiq 

I own an M1, M1+ and the M7 stereo amp and over the last 2 years have used them with speakers from Verity, Nola, Spatial, Reynaud, Fritz, Odyssey, Wharfedale and Harbeth.  I have not found your friend's characterization to be true with any of them including the Harbeth.  Was the Harbeth pairing great maybe not but that is more the Harbeth's voicing than the Kinki's to me. The similarly voiced Wharfedale however was a very good match.  As Alan now uses Hegel in his lab the fact that it may be a better pairing than the Kinki would not be a surprise. My Audia Flight integrated was also a better pairing with the Harbeth's and it is voiced to the warmer side like Luxman and Hegel. 

As to the op amp rolling Doug referred to it is there if you feel so inclined just like with the input boards for many of the NC500 based amps but it is fine just as it is but if you want to explore a different flavor you are free to do so. 
More to discover