Rowland Model 5, upgrade to Model 8/8ti


I'm currently running an old Rowland Model 5 amp, the fully differential model with SE and balanced inputs along with a Capri preamp. Cables are Kubala-Sosna Fascination IC's, Reality SC's (want to get KS SC's). CD/SACD player is a VSE Level 6 Sony 5400 with the Lite clock. Speakers are some heavily modded Reimer Tetons in which the only stock parts are the ribbon tweeters and the cabinets; they sound MUCH better than stock. They are 4 ohm speakers and quite current demanding.

My question is how big of an upgrade will it be going from the Model 5 to the Model 8/8ti? I really like the mids and highs that my current setup have and the amp doesn't seem to run out of steam. I knew when I bought it that it didn't have the greatest low frequency definition. This is readily apparent. If I went to one of the Model 8 iterations, I don't want to give up the mids and highs that I like now. I expect there would be better bass definition. Just how much?

Then there is the other problem of finding one. They don't seem to come up for sale very often. But I'm patient.

Bill
billspecfoc

Showing 3 responses by billspecfoc

Thanks, FF. I didn't know a used Model 8 commanded that high a price. That's a bit out of reach for me.

I was reading up on the Model 10 a bit. Some folks stated they thought it was a bit lean sounding compared to the 2/6/8/9 series. On person even said he had a power supply problem with his that couldn't be fixed by the JRDG's importer. All people report the 6's were superlative. Anyone know what a pair of these go for used? And, I know, good luck finding some.
I know this is off topic, but I saw a Bat VK-500 w/Bat-Pak for sale here. I've never heard any BAT SS gear, have read some reviews, seems like it may be similar to older Rowland gear but with better bass definition. Any thoughts?