Throwing 2 High End brands together will not automatically equal success. Thoughts?

 there are really two schools of thought:

ONE  use the same components from one manufacturer 

TWO offset each components weakness with another’s components  strength

So for example you have a very dynamic punchy solid state amplifier but it sounds a bit too cold and analytical, so them a warmer tube preamplifier might be the perfect solution. 

Dave and troy

Audio Intellect NJ

hi here in my 4o years of experience gleaned at working for two of the largest high

end audio  stores in New York City Sound by Singer and innovative audio it was 

always best matching components from different companies together as some companies made amazing amplifiers or preamplifiers while their matching amplifier or preamplifier was not as good as their competition.

this lead to combinations such as Convergent Audio preamplifiers with Vac or Vtl  amplifiers or even Krell power amplifier with a tube preamplifier.

in 40 years of doing this professionally and seling thousands of systems I came up with the foundational approach to system building:

1: start with loudspeakers first as the choice of loudspeaker is determined by room size and desired bass output, and budget.

2:choose amplifier or integrated that brings out the best from the loudspeakers

some loudspeakers sound their best on a tube amplifier or solid state amplifier

some loudspeakers are very efficient so you don't need a lot of power 

so you match the electronics to the loudspeakers

3; match the sound of the source to now flavor the system to your preferences

there are warmer dacs and cartridges and more detailed and analytical ones

fine tune with cables power conditioners and accessories room tuning loudspeaker positioning

Dave and troy

audio intellect NJ