Carver M1.5t vs. Krell or ML


Hello again. My screen name might ring a bell, as I recently initiated a discussion re updating my bookshelf speakers. For those keeping score at home, I’ve narrowed my search to Dynaudio Focus 140’s. Crap shoot without an opportunity to audition, but that’s the leap of faith I’ve got to take. We’ll hear as it goes.

So, I’ve got a Carver M1.5t, that’s literally still in the box, after a multi month sabbatical at Hi-tech Audio, Ltd. in WA state. Top to bottom refurb. I’d owned a Phase Linear 400 for decades, so the M1.5t was an easy choice when a very well cared for example became available.

The rub, is that after weeks of lurking about these parts, my long dormant interest to upgrade is making itself known again. Coming back to the fold as it were, I find there are older Krell and Mark Levinson amps that I could actually afford, at least pre-owned.

Obviously I’ll never be confused for a true audiophile, but I do value/appreciate good “stuff,” but only to the extent that it will provide at least some degree of sonic improvement over what I have now.

My preamplifier is a line stage CJ PV-12. My main upstream source is a semi-respectable, Adcom GCD-575.

Am I suffering from amp envy or is there a case to be made for an “upgrade?”
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I agree, put it all together and then , tweek and listen.  Then decide where you stand.   The PV 12 is a very fine preamp.  I had a 1.5t and a 1.0t way back and both were solid amps.   Definitely retube,   if you do not listen to vinyl you can start with tubes V5 and V6, 12au7 type.   If you have a 12L linestage only there will only be tubes in positions V5 and V6.

Good luck and enjoy
@jtucker...2001, with the infamous IMS bearing issue. I’ve installed a Guardian, ferrous metal monitor. In theory, it goes ape $&*# just before the engine lunches itself, and provides a tiny window to shut down.

I just cross my fingers and drive. If it grenades, I’ll have a nice piece of static art in the driveway.

@oddiofyl...I have an outboard, Creek OBH-8 mm phono preamp, but have yet to put that in the loop.
The Carver 1.5t is absolutely garbage. I have no idea why you think it was a good idea to purchase it. An Emotiva amp is miles ahead in sound quality never mind an old Krell. 
The Carver lacks detail and control and sounds flat and lifeless. 
Strongly recommend you audition some other amps.
I just love it when someone unilaterally starts bashing a product based solely on the name.  Really?  Anyone ever read the reviews of the Carver when it came out?  I don’t ever recall anyone calling it garbage, or lacking detail or power.  Can anyone point me to such a review, because I can pull several positive reviews of this amp.
I have an old Krell, and I know for a certainty that the Carver will give it a good run.  

If you’re happy with your amp, why are you wanting an upgrade?
The Carver will run headl to head with just about anything.  I’ve heard them in several fine systems, and have always been impressed.