2. amps-preamps
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Cary vs Raven

It's about time to replace the 20+ year old Prima Luna.  Based on my limited researches and the positive on Audiogon, I'm leaning toward either a Cary SLI-80HS or CAD-300SEI, and the Raven Blackhawk.  I currently have Forest Totem speakers, but am looking to get some Klipsch Heresy or Fortes.  On paper the SLI-80HS and Blackhawk look pretty similar to me, and I've been intrigued with the 300 B tube.  This is the last amp I will buy, so want to make sure it's the best my budget can manage.  I listen to classical in a small size room (15'x15'x9'), so I don't need a lot of power.   

Anyone out there had a chance to compare these amps?  If so, what is the verdict?  And how about the various upgrades available for each?  Thanks in advance for your advice.

jrcotner
knotscott's avatar
knotscott
802 posts
 

In order to buy what you hope is your last amplifier, it's better to have what you know are your last speakers.  Given how radically different the two speakers are, you'll want to be absolutely sure about the Klipsch before you sell the Totems. I wouldn't do it, but that's my opinion.

jrcotner OP
56 posts
 

Thanks for all of the advice.  I like the Forests, but after having the Fritz Carbon 7 SEs for a while I realized my old speakers were getting tired.  I'll take a listen to the Klipsch and see how I feel about them, then look into one of the amps.

jetter
2,952 posts
 

@jrcotner Is there any particular reason that you are not settling in with the Fritz Carbon 7 SEs?  Or are they in a second system?

soix
8,662 posts
 

You might consider just adding a couple subs to the Carbons — might be the best of all worlds. Klipsch is very different from Totems or Fritz, but maybe you’re after different?

jrcotner OP
56 posts
 

I got the Fritz speaker to try out at home.  They had nice high and mid range, but not the oomph which I like with the Forests.  I'd rather have a single full-range speaker than satellites and subs.

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