vacuumtube9004

Responses from vacuumtube9004

What kind of amplification for Martin Logan SL3 ?
ML speakers tend to like tubes. They show up the grunge in most SS gear. Try Melos or Quicksilvers. I have had good luck with both on my SL3s. 
Best CD player now made.
The Melos DVT 24/96 with all tube analog output stage waxes the BAT VK-D5 in A/B comparisons. The Melos also bested the ARC CD2 in the same A/B comparisons. Both the BAT and ARC sound dry and thin compared with the Melos. The BAT has a better feel... 
Best Tube preamp under 2.5k Used
For $2300 new the Melos SHA Maestro outperforms the BAT stuff and gives you the best sounding headphone amp in the world to boot. 
Best Electrostatic loudspeaker?
The Sound Labs are wonderous. They have 20 sq ft of panel area. The ML CLSs have 8 sq ft but get you most of the way there for only $4k. The extra sq. ft. of the Sound Labs are for bass and larger acoustical environments. If you can live with 40Hz... 
Best Phono Preamp under $1000
For a little more ($1250 new) the Blue Circle Audio BC-23 sounds superb.