Yamaha ns 5000

I wonder how the ns5000 compares to the atc scm 100 or 150.

@yyzsantabarbara I can't really say since mine were demo models and also I moved to 2 different listening rooms over the 3 years of ownership.

What I can say is for me and my ears the pass + ns5000 combination is becoming too fatiguing (X350.8). I don't blame the ns5000 I blame myself for craving a warmer, richer sound.

So I am sampling different amps and pres right now. So far the amp that impresses me the most in terms of the huge stage and warm tone is the CJ LP70S (I had lp140ms also).

I am in the process of probably buying a CJ pre to go with it and then I think im going to have some serious magic on tap.

I do have the willsenton r800i right now and I actually like it more than the pass x350.8 but i think i still want warmer and also the CJ soundstage is like 2x the size of pass or r800i. The problem is CJ doesn't have the clarity of the former too. So I have some work to do yet to dial things in.

I think its not a room issue you know why, I put my headphones on my pass amp it made them sound bright as well... it gave them the same fatiguing character. I am sure the x350.8 is warm relative to a lot of SS amps but im just really sensitive to treble energy and i need it way relaxed so I can sink into the music.

Would be cool to try coda 1 day.

Wanted to share that yesterday I paired the Doge 8 with the CJ LP 70S. This was the best sound i’ve heard from the NS5k.

Unbelievably huge expansive soundstage. The music completely detaches from the speakers and they disappear. Midrange projects far forward with utmost texture and intoxicating tone. I actually liked the doge 8 in the chain more than moreplay because it seemed the doge 8 helped to open up the stage more and improve see through clarity.

I was especially impressed with bass which became even more weighty, punchy and again seemed to project around my listening position in a way ive never heard before (including out of my big SS pass x350.8). Oh and 1 final point this was with KT120 tubes in the LP70S since I think one of the 6550 tubes I had popped. I think the 6550 sounds even warmer and bigger but the KT120 controls the bass and provides more transparency. Truly exceptional combination!