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Monoblocks to consider?

Hi,

Current system:

* Audio Aero Capitol;
* Joule Electra LA150 MkII;
* Dave Berning ZH-270,
* Merlin VSM-Mxe

I'm sort of considering monoblocks to replace the Berning - I know there are a few members here (especially SBanks) who have moved to Atma Shere monoblocks.

I'd like to canvas views on what amps I should be listening to. I'd like the amps to have just a touch more bottom end slam, if this is possible with my pre and speaker combo.

Thanks,

MontyW
montywoo
loki1957's avatar
loki1957
122 posts
 
Odyssey mono extreams. They have caused me to sell off all my Jadis amps that I've had for 12 years and really love.
tweak1
3,553 posts
 
Definitely check into Wyred4Sound. I am using the K 500s on my Magnepan 3.5R mid/bass panels. Underwood HiFi sells them. He advertises here.
oneprof
147 posts
 
What's your budget? You may consider getting a second 270 somewhere and monoblocking them, very easy to do, or, if you can afford it, the new Berning monoblocks are available. I had multiple 270's, and the new monoblocks are just in a different league. I still have my MX's too, I should hook up the Bernings to them to see what they'll do.
One other thing--how old are the tubes in your Audio Aero? I just had mine replaced after 3 years (I leave it on standby most of the time), and wow, what a difference. Of course, I also added an Elrod cord to the AA, but regardless of what caused it, there was an immediate increase in bass.
martykl
3,578 posts
 
Monte,

IMHO, I'd first bring your VSMs and BAM to current spec (if they are not laready there). The difference in bass impact is pretty dramatic - mostly, I assume, to changes in the BAM. The KT-88 powered Prima Luna 7 monos, the TAD Hibachi SS monos, the Odyssey monos (mine were not extreme), and the the ICE powered Bel Cantos all sound different from each other, but all provided real kick at 60 hz and down.

Good Luck,

Marty
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