Will a Separate Amp Make a Difference

Personally, I'm done with tubes in the back end of my system even though there is still one in the house. Is there any reason why you haven't considered a tube amplifier?

My V-1 replaced a Cerwin-Vega amp from the early 70's so the difference was striking in all areas. I'm sure I'd have difficulty picking out the Ayre in a blind listen between, say Sim Audio but that's me. My experience is very limited to only a few amplifiers I've owned and I have trouble hearing anything outside my listening room.

Sorry this isn't going to help you much.

Vic

I agree with what was stated above however to answer your question I will say that I’ve replaced a good integrated amp with a good dedicated amp (using as preamp as you stated) and have heard more detail, darker background, better timber/timber decay, better bass response/slam, and improved sound stage. With that said I’ve upgraded the dedicated amp two other times and heard an improvement in the above description. Of course one must keep in mind it’s a matter of diminishing returns! How much are you willing to spend?

Thanks Lak - I would like to buy something used through Audiogon and hopefully stay in the $4,000 range. I think it makes sense to try and select equipment to match the relative level of the existing components in the system. I am using an older CAL ikon MK 11 with a benchmark DAC, a REGA 2 and Purist Audio Design older fluid speaker cables. I would think it makes sense to look for a balanced ss amp since it would match well with the BAT preamp that was selected for the impact of tubes. As mentioned in my original note, I am happy with the system and I do enjoy listening - no major complaints. I am curious about whether I have reached a point where I have achieved most of what I can get out of the original Audio Physic Virgos.