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Plinius 9200 or separates?

Trying to get a grasp of how to proceed with amplification. I have a Plinius 9200 running Totem Forest speakers. Sounds good but not incredible. Recently subbed in some 70's era Audio Research pieces (SP-6 pre amp and D52-B power amp). These have in the past had some problems with distortion but worked this time just fine. It seems like the sound came more alive with this combo although it felt like some more power was needed, especially with orchestral music. I was told by a repairman that the power amp was on its last legs. I'm considering having AR service the SP-6 and look for a new power amp.I would appreciate opinions about what power amp, tube or SS, might be appropriate. Or should I look for another pre amp as well? I know this is kind of vague but what do you think?

Plinius 9200 w/ Top Gun power cord
Totem Forest w/ Totem bi-wire cable
Rega P3
Exposure 2010S CD
leftyfox

Showing 2 responses by ngjockey

ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
I may be wrong but it seems you want a more forward and lively soundstage. I think tubes would be the answer for you and a newer ARC near the top of the list. The Forests, at 87 dB and 6 to 8 ohms, would seem to be in the 100 to 200 watt territory for optimum.

Transistor amps, Plinius in particular, tends to be more "behind the speakers" but Chord comes to mind. Then there's the tube integrateds, which should be fine as long as you don't want party SPL's and visceral bass. The Manley Stingray, VTL, Rogue Tempest and Cary would be near the top of that list. The Rogue is fairly unique in using KT88's. It would be unfair to compare the power of a well-used, 40 year old to the ones I mentioned but they won't be as strong as the 9200.
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
I would never accuse the Plinius of being 2D, it's more like sitting 20 rows back at a concert. Actually, I prefer that vantage because of the stability of the imaging. Many people prefer front row center. As matanoosh said, "it's simply a matter of synergy", and personal taste.
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