2. amps-preamps
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Confusion reigns - tube amp,ss amp, integrated..??

I've been reading a lot of threads here (and on the Audio Asylum) and I am just getting more and more confused.

I am coming from the simple world of SS receiver and separate SS power amp - Rotel gear, as you can see from my Virtual System. I am trying to find a more musical system, but I still need to have a system that can be used for HT.

I am changing out my speakers to Cain & Cain Abbys - single drive (Fostex 166E) high efficiency speakers (95dB.) My Teres turntable is also a keeper, as is my phono stage. These are about the only decisions I have been able to firm up! So, I am building my system around these components.

I need either an integrated amp or separates - pre amp/power amp. I thought tubes would be best for the Abbys, but then again, maybe the pre should be solid state with a tube amp - or is the other way around better? You see how unknowing I am! An integrated amp might be a bit of a compromise, but might also fit my budget better. :-~

This is what I need the system to do: I need to be able to run my CD drive, a DVD drive, my phono stage and a subwoofer, as well as, of course, front speakers. If I end up getting rid of my receiver, an option for rear and center speakers would be a plus, though I may forgo surround sound (5.1) with my new system.

My budget is around $10,000 (gulp) which is both limiting, I realize, and more than I wanted to spend. :rolleyes: I would like this budget to include a new CD-player - I am considering the Musical Fidelity A5 - so I guess my actual amp/preamp budget is around $8000.

Please help me if you can!

Holly
oakiris
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Thanks Apt_one - I very much want to hear the music, not the electronics. Your comments are quite convincing. I am especially interested in the Welborne Labs Terraplane 300b - after all, the bubinga wood will match some of the wood on my equipment rack! :rolleyes: Welborne also lists the Cain & Cain speakers as compatible. Since I don't have the skill to put together the kit, I would have to buy the assembled unit.

As for the Audible Illusions pre amps - what is the difference between a "Full-Function Stereo Preamplifier" (the Modulus 3A,) and a "line stage" (the L2.) The L2 appears to be capable of HT pass through to an external processor, but I am beginning to think I don't need that!

Jaybo - I can't remember all of the CDs I heard during my Abby audition, but among them were cuts from: Angelique Kidjo's "Black Ivory Soul," Miles Davis' "doo-bop," and Leonard Cohen's "Ten New Songs."

Holly
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,191 posts
 
I second Apt_One's advice. Stay away from HT... you will end up spending alot of money for "bells & whistles" that would be better spent on higher quality two channel components. I learned the hard way ($).
larryb
101 posts
 
I also used to have Rotel HT gear and got really tired of the midfi sound - especially with music. I didn't think I could get high quality 2 channel and HT in the same system for less than huge amounts of money.

However I ended up getting a deal on all Cary HT components. The Cinema 6 pre/pro, Cinema 5 Amp, DVD-6 player. After upgrading my cables to match the new system, I can tell you I'm in heaven every time I fire up the system. I never thought I'd have as good 2 channel audio in my home, let alone how amazingly this sounds in HT.

That I get all this with 3 components is just astounding. If you really shop hard, you could probably find this setup for $5K or more. You could also get the less powerful (but equally as amazing sounding) Cinema 7 amp and go down in price from there.

As an ex-Rotel owner, I can tell you you'll be in seventh heaven like I am if you go the Cary route. For pure sound quality, you can't touch it for the price.
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I will be able to check out some of the Cary products at a local dealer. I'll have to audition them, Larry.

Briefly, how do they differ from the Rotel sound??

Holly
apt_one
7 posts
 
Hi Holly,

I have the Audible Illusions L-1 and highly recommend it. Great preamp without going broke.

The L-2 line stage (no phone input) is the newer version of the L-1 with the HT bypass and a remote. The M3A obviously includes the phono input. Sonically they are identical.

Have fun.
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