ProAc Response 2: CJ CAV45, Cary SEI 300B, or Cary Rocket 88?


Looking at the amps listed in the title to pair with my newly acquired ProAc Response 2: CJ CAV45, Cary SEI 300B, or Cary Rocket 88

Looking for the best tone and most in-the-room presence possible. Also want tuneful/rhythmic bass vs depth/authority.

Any feedback from those who have heard any of these, especially with ProAc would be appreciated.

Thanks!

leahy

Showing 1 response by bjesien

Only you can understand what you will hear from these combinations. I’d suggest that if you have the means, or can maybe buy used or with a return policy, get two amps side by side at some point...

I’d suggest the 300b and the El34. Get them when you have a little time to spend with them. In the end you might pay (lose) $300 in shipping or flipping but you have to pay for experience- there is no way around that. The forum is the best alternative and probably the cheapest best way.

Good luck, the Proacs are great. I had the RD2 with a Luxman 550AX years ago and they had weight, were dynamic, and had great presence. That said FWIW I always gravitate back to tubes so not swaying you with that SS comment.

I also owned the RW 30.2 (with a different speaker) and it didn’t give me the brilliance or zest I was looking for. I think you are on the right track. Please post your follow up story.