System advice and upgrade path?


Hello, I’m in upgrade mode and would like your input.

My system currently consists of Cary CAD-50MKII Sig. monoblocks, Cary SLP 50 preamp (with oil caps), Reference 3a MM de Capo-i monitors and Rega Planet (2000 model) and Rega P-3 table. Kimber Kable throughout.

It’s a very good sounding system, but recently I started to long for a bit of the bass control and air that I had with a McCormack DNA1 and Merlin TSM-SE’s I used to own.

I want to keep the de Capo’s, but I am thinking of a new amp set up. As you can see I’ve swung between the SS and TUBE camps, and of course I am looking for the “best of both worlds”. I’m thinking along the lines of either SimAudio W-5 or BAT VK-55 (tho I have not auditioned either) or something similar (Rouge, Edge etc.?).

Would the Cary SLP 50 mate with either of these amps? I might also forgo the SLP 50 because good NOS input tubes are getting so expensive.

I have also considered getting a REL sub for the existing system in hope of some bass control/ reinforcement that way.

I tend to listen to acoustic music (roots/bluegrass/folk) female vocalist, some melodic jazz and some classic rock/reggae.

So many options, which way to go?
p.s. my budget contribution to the upgrade would be aprox. $1,500-2,500.

Comments/Suggestions welcome.

Thanks
corina

Showing 1 response by heli_dog

I've recently added a Ming Da MC-7R tube preamp to my SimAudio Moon W-3 and Reference 3a MM de Capo-i monitors. I'm very pleased with the results.

The UHFmag.com Reference System uses the Copland CTA-305 tube preamp with the SimAudio Moon W-5LE.

For other possible winning combinations you might also want to check out the De Capo owners web site;

For owners of Reference 3A loudspeakers.
http://www.audiocircle.com/circles/viewforum.php?f=53

Regards