2. amps-preamps
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Pre and Amp Suggestions

Given the way these things go, I’m almost afraid to ask this question but here goes: I’m finally at a place where my front-end and speakers are at “destination” level-at least for me....for now.  My question is where and what to upgrade between these two extremes. The speakers in question are Revel Studio 2s which I love, and the front-end dac/streamer is the Lumin T1 ruining Roon. The Lumin feeds into an analogue bypass section (no digital conversion) of an Anthem AVM60 going in turn to two 200 watt mono channels of a Sherbourn 7300. In trying to answer my question, I would appreciate keeping to the following parameters:

-no suggestions of other speakers or front end gear, I’m in a good place where I am right now.
-no suggestions of power conditioners, cables etc. Let’s just stick to the gear.

Just looking for pre and amp recommendations (or really good SS integrated amps). The sound right now is quite neutral, but perhaps a little lean but very revealing. I’m not looking to drastically alter the sound or play louder, just looking for more of the “good stuff”, resolution, staging etc. Might consider a tube pre or hybrid but really have no interest in an all tube power amp or massive class A space heater anymore. Ok let the games begin!
spinaker01

Showing 14 responses by spinaker01

spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
The Pass integrated is definitely on my short list. As are the x60.5 monos. Either would be within my $10k used budget. 
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Sorry, that is an important question I omitted. My budget for pre/amp or integrated would be About $10k
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
I do like PS Audio as a company. I watch the Ask Paul series and get Copper magazine as well. Not sure who carries them here in Canada but no dealer on the east coast seems to. Leaves me with a remote purchase or the used market for most things. I’ll keep an eye out for the BHK gear, thx
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Thanks auxinput. Yes I meant the xa series. Even though I self eliminated class A amps, these I would make an exception for. I’m going to keep a close eye on the Pass marketplace over the summer, hopefully a nice gem will pop up. Thanks
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Wolf....too funny, and too true. I have always had a soft spot for Dan’s work and used to run a pair of his KMA100s back in the day.  My first real taste of hi-end sound. I have considered a 302e, however they seem a little scarce on the used market. 
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
I have been following WCSS thread over the past year or so. The Luxman has been getting rave reviews but I can’t get past the 70s styling. (I know shallow). The JRDG rec of the 625s would not leave anything for a preamp, however, I have been keeping my radar spinning for a Continuum S2, which along with the Pass INT 250, and ML 585 are my top three integrated amps I think in this range. Of these three, which does the Collective think would be the best match for my Revels?
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Thanks Atmosphere, I am already a balanced practitioner. Much prefer gear that is truly differential. Not sure why you say the ARC is not balanced, the LS25 and VT100 is used to own definitely were. Though I do agree they were on the bleached side of neutral considering they were tube units. I think the pre was mostly to blame for that though with the 6h30 tubeset. 
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
I.......did not know that. Thanks for the clarification Atmosphere. I learn something new every day. Cheers
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses and suggestions, lots to ponder here. It’s likely I will go with either a Continuum S2 or Levinson 585 generally because they are more available. I’m still keen on a Pass INT250 or even harder to come by, a Vitus RI-100. I really have no dealers locally who carry any of these so it will be a leap of faith no matter what I get, unless I get ambitious and take a trip to NYC for a vacation/listening tour. 😎
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Redlenses03, what amps did you get the XA60.5? 
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
My Vitus RI-100 arrives Monday. Very excited to get it in the rig!
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Still settling in, but I’m quite impressed so far. Sounds almost class A but without the heat. The Vitus really locks on to the Revel Studios with an iron grip in the low end but has a wonderful mid neautrality and silky highs. Pleased so far!
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
Well, here I am circling back here a year later. The Vitus is great but I think I still need to consider either/and a tube front end or class A amp. I think the pre section of the Vitus may be its Achilles heel so to speak (and it is by no means bad) and I can run this as an amp only so a tube pre is possible and likely cheaper route. I never warmed up to the 6H30 tubes in my arc LS25mk2 but I am considering one of the older BAT, ARC Ref3 or similar which would run a 6922 or 12ax type tube. Any suggestions? Budget around $3-5k used.
spinaker01 OP
491 posts
 
I think I would only being upgrading with Vitus by moving to their signature (class A) equipment. The RI-101 would only be an incremental improvement. Thinking I agree with the tube preamp suggestions and keep the RI-100 as a power amp possibly
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