NuForce vs Red Wine

Vicdamone,

I asked my question to solicit multiple opinions on the differences between the two amps, independent of system, fully aware that component synergy does make a difference. I did not list my system only because I thought it unlikely that someone would have the same setup as mine, let alone my room, room treatments, power supply, ICs, ears, etc. But, who knows, maybe someone does have a system SIMILAR (objectively?) to mine:

Fully Balanced-
Marantz SA-11S1
NuForce Ref9 V2
PLC Sonic Euphoria or Placette RVC
AZ Adagios
PS Audio Quintet
Dedicated AC Circuit
Van den hul & PS Audio PCs and ICs
AP Oval 9 Speaker
Small Room (11x13)
Mature ears

It has recently been mentioned to me that my system would benefit more by replacing my passive preamps with a good tube preamp than making the upgrade to either the SE version of NuForce Ref9V2 or the RWA .2s. Could this be true?

Thanks to all for great feedback!

John

Tvad,

I wonder why that is so?. I have used several SS preamps with my NuForce amps, but none have come close (IMHO) to the smooth and detailed sound of the passives. In my system they present the dynamics of the recording as well as the actives. The only downside that I have perceived with the passive units is that they are slightly, (very, very slightly) rounded on the leading attack. But neither do they have that accompanying snap glare that I have sometimes heard accompanying the attack with the SS units. Has anyone compared passives with tube pres with the NuForce amps?

Thanks.

John

Kck,

I share your pain in parting with components. My TVC really does sound liquid and dynamic to me with my NuForce amps. My Placette has great tonality and transparency - I just like it. I hate to part with either. But I now just have to hear a tube pre so I think its time to part with one - but which one? Maybe I'll decide next week.

Best regards,

John