2. amps-preamps
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Wilson Sophia2s demand better than AYRE V5xe, so..

...What would you recommend?

Just took delivery of Wilson Sophia 2s. Plinius CD101 - Ayre K1xe - Ayre V5xe - Sophia 2s. Synergistic Research cables.

The K1xe is very good, I'd like to keep it, but I need a new amp.

The V5xe is too lean in the midbass, no texture or bloom. Soundstage is okay, but not "full" enough. No deep bass!

At the RMAF, I liked VAC phi 200s on the Von Schweikert VR-9se AND on the Greshman Black Swans as a point of reference.

I'm open to tubes or SS, but I think tubes might get me where I want to go. I'm looking for very full and detailed imaging that absolutely floats in the air, with intense layering, body and texture. I need better control over these speakers, and stronger deep bass output, speakers sound too thin now. I want fullness of images like MBL speakers, but with a more natural, involving midrange like the best Acapellas.

Budget is 10k new or used. Again, looking for a warmer, natural sound with very delineated images that complement my dynamic Wilson speakers, so don't underpower me!...
hce4

Showing 2 responses by gtfour45

gtfour45
39 posts
 
I am also a Sophia 2 owner and can endorse the earlier comments regarding toe-in for Wilson speakers.

Mine are toed-in so that only a small slice of the inner surface is visible from the listening seat.

In my setup experience, soundstage & image precision increased with amount of toe-in. At a certain point, the image really snaps into focus. I recommend you mark the dealer positions on the floor then experiment yourself.
gtfour45
39 posts
 
Hi Hce4,

I'm very pleased to hear you've had good results from your positioning experiments.

Crossing approximately two feet behind your head sounds about the same as my setup.

I hope you can find the right upstream combination to get the best from your Sophias.
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