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Jolida Fusion or Vincent SA-32 / hybrid comparison

I’ve recently started upgrading my system and decided on separate amp/preamp combo verses integrated. Now I’m in the process of adding a preamp and interested in the hybrid concept. Both Jolida and Vincent audio have models for roughly the same price point, so I’m looking for feedback or experiences.

Unfortunately I don’t live anywhere near a large city to listen for myself and could use the groups feedback. I would like to stay in the $1,200 range if someone has other suggestions. This would be dedicated to only vinyl and I listen to all genres.
My system;
- VPI scout / Hana SL
- Elac PPA-2
- Parasound A23
- Q Acoustics 3050i 

Thanks in advance

128x128vette5451
big_greg
6,567 posts
 
I owned a Jolida Fusion and it was noisy, one of the XLR connectors came loose, and if I remember right, it also made popping noises when changing inputs.  In short, I don't think it was very well made and sound quality was not as good as other components I've owned.

I can't speak to the Vincent SA-32, but I own the Vincent SV-237 integrated, which is based on a SS amp and tube preamp section.  It's built like a tank, I've had zero issues with it, and it sounds a lot better than the Fusion did with a much more expensive amp driving it (a Wyred 4 Sound ST-1000 mkII).

I'd go Vincent all the way.  I also own a couple of Jolida JD9 phono stages.  Again, they are OK, but a bit noisy and not built to the level of most of my other components.  
vette5451's avatar
vette5451 OP
56 posts
 
Thanks Greg, your experience with Jolida was helpful.
hasmarto's avatar
hasmarto
162 posts
 
I have had the Vincent  sa-32 for eight months in one of my bedroom systems. It’s very flexible, lots of inputs/outputs, including pseudo-balanced, and it’s also visually presentable. The sound was quite dull with my system no matter the tone controls. 
Note, that if even one of the tubes goes bad, then neither Audioadvisor nor Vincent will sell you the replacements, you have to ship your unit to them. That information comes directly from them, and is relevant for every tube-based device they make.
big_greg
6,567 posts
 
I've heard that in some of the Vincent's the tubes are soldered in. I was able to roll all of the tubes in my SV - 237 integrated. Vincent was not helpful when I asked about trying other tubes in it, they only recommend the ones they put in it.
mesch
3,417 posts
 
I have owned the SV-226 integrated. Wish I never sold it. The tubes in it were in sockets and could be removed. Not sure about their preamps. Sorry to hear about their customer support.

I also owned and be putting up for sale here on AG a Jolida Fusion preamp. It was not noisy, however provided 20dB of gain which was more than I needed. The Jolida people (now Black Ice) were good to work with, reachable via phone and helpful with questions. 
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