Sutts, you also asked about the Plinus SA102 MkII amp. Yes, I used the same speakers I have now: Super Eclipse MkIII's. I liked the amp; among the other SS amps I was trying out (Goldmund SRM 150's, and Goldmund Mimesis 28M in quick succession) the Plinus seemed more alive, more coherent, more liquid, and maybe just mated with the First Sound pre-amp better compared to the Goldmund amps. I liked the Plinius amp, but not enough to buy one.
Now, I have heard the (significant) step up Goldmond 29M in another system that just worked wonderfully with the Placette Audio Active Linestage and Talon Firebirds. The 1.45 V input sensitivity of the 28M just may not be enough to let the First Sound drive the amp properly, or something.
To me, the Plinius SA102 MKII seemed to be a more complete amp, in my system.
Now, I have heard the (significant) step up Goldmond 29M in another system that just worked wonderfully with the Placette Audio Active Linestage and Talon Firebirds. The 1.45 V input sensitivity of the 28M just may not be enough to let the First Sound drive the amp properly, or something.
To me, the Plinius SA102 MKII seemed to be a more complete amp, in my system.