Congratulations! Audio Hungary is making some phenomenal stuff at very reasonable prices (relatively speaking, of course). I'm seriously considering buying an a20i for my home office system.
Enjoy the music!
Enjoy the music!
Octave V70SE vs Qualiton X200
Anyone experience comparing both amps? Currently have the Qualiton X200 on audition and really very impressed. The Octave has gotten really good reviews as well, but from what I’ve read it’s pretty neutral sounding. I’m looking for a warmer sound but still resolving which is why I chose to demo the X200 first. It hasn’t disappointed thus far. Pricing is close, Octave is a bit more but not far away from the X200. This is subjective but looks wise I prefer the X200. Reminds me of my Dads old Hifi setup. Thanks in advance.
Showing 5 responses by arafiq
@chipcalzone -- if you can bump up your budget a bit more, take a look at Qualiton a50i. The 50 watts of pure class A is just magical! Based on my auditioning experience, it punches above the X200 -- as it should, given the price difference. BTW, I demoed the Octave v70 and agree with another poster that it was a bit more on the SS side of the spectrum. But that's not necessarily a bad thing in my book. It retains all the positive attributes of holographic imaging, separation and romance of a good tube amp. You should audition the Octave as well before making your final decision. Just my 2 cents. |
@chipcalzone -- I'm driving the Harbeth SHL5+ with the a50i with no issues at all. The SHL5+ are 86db/6 ohms. I can crank it up to the point where I don't care to stay in the room. And even then I'm probably at 50% of the volume dial. But either way, both models are excellent. Good luck! https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/9424 |
@chipcalzone -- I know you directed your question at Jerry, but I thought I'd share my 2 cents anyways :) I had compared both a50i and x200, but not at the same time unfortunately. I preferred the a50i by a wide margin. IMO, it has more clarity, refinement and slightly more holographic imaging. The X200 offers more features for sure, but in case of a50i all the cost goes towards higher quality parts and design. The one thing that I love most about this amp is the soundstage depth. It's the first time in my system that I can hear sound coming from a few feet behind the front wall. I've owned Audio Research GSi75, VAC Sigma 160i SE, Raven Audio Blackhawk, and Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II prior to the a50i, and there is simply no comparison. This amp is that much better. The only thing you'll miss is the bass slam of SS, but that's true for most tube amps. However, the bass you get with the a50i is somehow more nuanced and satisfying. I'm currently borrowing a VTL I-85 (EL34 but 60 watts) from a friend for my second system. Amazing amp but not as refined and holographic as the a50i. I suggest you contact Well Pleased A/V who is a dealer for Audio Hungary. They are good people and will give you honest advice. |
@jerryg123 -- A good friend is also running QLN 3s with Qualition a50i. According to him, it is one of the best combinations he's ever heard, and this guy knows his audio ... has had tens of different systems over the years. I would love to hear your experience with this particular combo when you get a chance. |