Tube integrated for Devore Super Nines


Hola compadres. I’ve been away a while - reading forums and reviews, cogitating and dreaming. I’ve been out of work for almost 5 years doing odd jobs, but am back to work and celebrating, in part, by putting together a new system. It’s a lot of good fun and really satisfying. I’ve started with a new pair of Devore Super Nines that are just about broken in and love them!

I’m looking at three tube integrateds to potentially replace my VPI 299d and hoping for some input around their matching the Devores and my sonic preferences - I like a big, quiet, well defined soundstage, some warmth and bloom, solid but not overly tight or tubby/diffuse bass and value musicality and swing over the last detail. 
Decware Zen Torii - bespoke, point to point, plenty of tube rolling to tailor sound, lifetime warranty, amazing service.
Raven Blackhawk - solid, well built and reviewed/appreciated, amazing service, 6L6GC based
Cary SLI-80 F1 style - a classic, 6SN7’s, would mod it up - curious about the HS vs. tube rectified.

The VPI 299d with GL KT-88’s and NOS Mullards up front sounds generally great, but really isn’t drawing me into the tunes the way I think I could be with the Devores.

The PrimaLuna Prologue I had previously seemed sort of shouty, but calmed down with some Mullards and Winged c 6l6GC’s. The VPI is more tonally right to my ears and I’ve loved the full romantic sound of DJH style modded AES’ PH1 and AE3. Octals up front really sound best to me, but I can live with the 9 pinners.

If I could afford a Leben CS600x, I would, but not right now anyway.

Happy holidays, be well and stay safe, and enjoy the tunes!
Looking forward to your thoughts..
budburma

Showing 1 response by goldprintaudio

I know we chatted on the phone a bit about these, and you have 3 great options you've narrowed it down to.  One more that you may want to think about....

Line Magnetic 805ia -- https://www.line-magnetic.eu/en/products-line-magnetic-en/integrated-tube-amplifier-line-magnetic-en...

It's also a very nice match with the Super Nines.


Or just hold out for that Leben CS600x!  :)