2. amps-preamps
  3. 1211142991

Von Schweikert VR-4.5 amp recommendations?

I'm currently using a DJH AE-3 preamp with a VTL ST-85 amp, bi-wired to the VS spkrs. Looking for more speed and cleaner bass and mid-bass. VTL amp in this set-up is a little too loose. Thinking about going solid state, maybe McCormack, Mark Levinson, Threshold S300, Ayre V-3, Spectron Musician II, CIA, Classe, Nak PA5. Even though these speakers have good efficiency they seem to require a lot of power to come alive. I would guess high damping to be a priority. My price range is up to $1,800 max, but would prefer staying around $1,500. Used is ok. What have you tried or heard?
tube540

Showing 2 responses by jrun

jrun
61 posts
 
I went through this same situation about three months ago. I called and spoke with Albert Von Schweikert and he recommended a tube integrated to me. I came from a class A SS amp and thought I wanted to stay with SS. I could not be more satisfied. This is my first tube amp, although I have had several tube preamps. By the way, Albert told me he voiced the VR4.5 with Spectron Musician amps. Good luck.

Jerry
jrun
61 posts
 
It was an Audio Space Ref. 3 using the KT88 tubes. Albert is selling these in his showroom and he upgraded the caps in mine as he suggested. Albert says these amps have a special synergy with his speakers. At first I felt I had given up some bass, but gained quite alot in detail and soundstage, but after the amp settled in at about 100 hours, all of my bass is back. The only thing I feel I have given up is police calling volume. The qualities gained far outweigh this. YMMV.
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