2. amps-preamps
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SET Integrateds

I'm considering getting an SET integrated amp. Some of the models that are intriguing are the New Audio Frontiers 845 SE and the Mastertone 845 Ref. Although these amps are not too common in the US, owners seem to be pretty happy about them. These amps are all in the same ballpark pricewise. Has anyone had the chance to hear both of these amps and have a preference of one over the other? Another contender is the 300b based KR Audio VA340, which has received some excellent reviews. I'd be curious how the KR might compare to the 845 based amps. Unfortunately, it is not likely that I'll get a chance to hear any in person for a while so any input would be appreciated. Also other suggestions would be appreciated. I have speakers rated about 90db in a small room 12x14 right now, might be adding on a slightly bigger room in the future. I'm also open to separates, but I like the intergrated concept.
hchilcoat
3 responses Add your response
hchilcoat OP
152 posts
 
My speakers are 90-91 db sensitivity with nominal impedance of 8 ohms. So I think I'll be ok with 20 Watts. Glad you like the Viva -- the Italians are doing so nice stuff!

By the way I meant to say Mastersound 845 in my original post, not Mastertone. I'm a banjo player, so I must have been thinking of the Gibson Mastertone.

2100 -- I sent you an email. Look forward to hearing from you.
2100
16 posts
 
Hchilcoat, do contact me at wedding_photog@yahoo.com.sg

I can share with you my story and save yourself a whole load of money. :)
david12
1,454 posts
 
For those speakers, I suspect you need 20watts plus. I know the impedence is equally important for tube amps and I hope your speakers are 6ohm plus with no nasty dips. That being said, I think a SET would suit you nicely. Unfortunatel they are'nt cheap either. They tend to need quality components, particularly the output transformers. I use a Viva Solista, a big brute that runs very hot, but just wonderful sound, it uses 845's so is more uniform across the frequency spectrum and with more drive than a 300B. They appear on Audiogon at times for about $4000 used.
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