Music reference/ audio research / vpi

I've not heard the RM200, but have read it doesn't sound like a traditional tube amp and is almost solid state sounding in some respects.   

I've owned a VAC Phi 200 which is KT88 based, like the 300.1.  I didn't find VAC's KT88 sound as rich... it's quite good, but not as rich as other tube amps I've owned.

I currently own both the Music Reference RM9 MKII with RAM EL34's and a VAC 30/30 MKIII Signature with VAC 300B's.   Both amps are wonderful examples of classic tubes amp sound, with the RM9 providing healthy doses of rich midrange sweetness... whereas the VAC 30/30 is more more balanced through out the frequency spectrum, with excellent midrange, non-fatiguing airy highs and well defined, crisp bass.  I can recommend both of these amps if you are looking for classic sound.  

Shindo is also supposed to pair wonderfully with Devore speakers.  I'd also consider Living Voice, Verity and the Harbeth 40 series.

There's pair of Harbeth M-40.1's listed for only $6,700, which is an outstanding deal.   I've owned this speaker twice and plan on keeping my current pair for life.

I've not owned an Audio Research preamp, so I couldn't tell you if it would be compatible with the RM9.  I use an Aesthetix Calypso Signature and love it.  You can buy the standard Calypso used for around $2,500. 

fanotunes,
I guess you picked up the nice pair of 40.1's recently listed for $6,700?  If so, you got a great deal on those puppies!  I think you will be amazed how organic and natural they sound.  I've heard other's refer to Harbeth's 40 series as their "desert island" speaker... as in if they had to pick one speaker to have if stranded on a desert island for life, the big Harbeth's are what they'd choose.

I'd stick with a neutral preamp and experiment with other tube amps over time to figure out what suits you... or even better, keep your RM 200 and buy a second more tubey sounding amp to have as a alternative when the mood strikes you to change things up.  This is what I do.  There are many great tube amps in the $2,000 to $4,000 range, including the two that I currently own. 

I'd use RAM KT88's and maybe play with some NOS signal tubes, then upgrade your preamp to something from CAT, Aesthetix or go up the Audio Research food chain. 

Roger did a good job repairing, refurbishing and retubing my RM9.   His RAM tubes are a strong value (my RM9 MKII is fully tubed with RAM), but if I were looking for premium NOS tubes, I'd go to VTS or Brent Jessee.  I've purchased tubes from Upscale, but have had some bad experiences... so I will not buy from them again.

Regarding placement of your 40.1's, I recommend you pull them off the front wall more (45" to 50") and try putting them 7' to 8' apart (center to center), then move your listening chair in considerably, as I think 14' is way too far away.  The more you can move them away from the walls, the better off you will be.

For premium tubes, I recommend you call Andy at Vintage Tube Services 616.454.3467.

He's probably the most knowledgeable and trusted retailer of premium quality tubes.   My only word of caution is that he is a one man show, so it can take several weeks to get your tubes, but you won't be disappointed.

How big is your room and how far out do you have the speakers from the front wall?  My room is 16' wide x 26' long, with the speakers on the short wall, 4' off the front wall to the speaker grill and approximately 7' apart, both angled in to the listener seat, approximately 8'6" from the front of the speakers.  

If you don't have room treatments, I'd address that before you upgrade any tubes or buy a different preamp.   I highly recommend GIK Acoustics... good products, good advice, reasonable prices and excellent service.