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To Cat sl1 owners: which tube amp?

I've a Cat sl1 signature mkii and totem forest speakers. I tried a lot of tube monos but i'm really in trouble to find a right match. The last i bought are two vtl mb 125: the sound is too bright for me...too detailed. I lissen to jazz and classical. I ask suggestion for a good tube monos or stereo to drive my totems (tube only please!). Budget 3000-5000 € (i'm in Italy...), stuff i'm considering: arc (vt 220, classic 120), manley (snapper, 100/240), jadis (i auditioned ja 50 and liked them...only few bass..), mcintosh (275, 2102?)...
Thank you for your answer
Enrico
enricomc75

Showing 2 responses by daveyf

daveyf's avatar
daveyf
3,027 posts
 
If your Forest's can be driven with 65 watt/ch, I would suggest an amp that I use and love....the ARC D70Mk2. Superb synergy with my CAT and it is one of the very best amps for jazz or classical that I have heard. The mids and highs are still IMHO SOTA!
Here's the icing on the cake...they can still be had for a song!( although a'philes are now beginning to snap them up). Easily in your budget.
daveyf's avatar
daveyf
3,027 posts
 
Jafox, I do agree with you that the CAT and its gain structure is absolutely NOT the cause of excess brightness. However, I think you may be surprised IF you listened to an ARC D70Mk2 or a D115 today( with some of today's gear)....they are NOT overly warm amps. In fact, I think they are about as true to the source as any amp that WJ ever designed.
When I hear of excessive brightness, besides the speakers, I always look to the room and the cabling.
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