Results 51 to 65 of 65
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January 24, 2022, 06:03 PM #51
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- Minnesota
- Posts
- 1,369
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Here is a link to my review if you are interested-
Review of the New DVA 225 Mono Block Amps
And here is a review from an owner on the AC forum-
"RETURN TO THE FAITH
Well, I’m back.
“Who are you, where are you back from, and why should I care?” I hear you ask.
I am a Van Alstine disciple of the last 43 years, and have owned Frank’s gear from the days of Jensen’s Stereo Shop. I sort of fell away from the path of True Faith about seven years ago, and though I’ve always kept an AVA amp and preamp on hand, was seduced by the spell of gear with copious reviews and higher prices. It’s a long story, and boring too, so I won’t burden you with details. But even in my time of being lost in the hi-fi wilderness, I continued to recommend AVA gear to friends and family as a superb, cost-effective means to sonic enlightenment.
The shining audio beacon that lights my return to the AVA fold is the DVA M225 amp. For the last year I have owned two very highly regarded Pass Labs monoblocks, and was initially quite happy with them. But I gradually became aware that although these amps did depth and detail and gravitas extremely well, I was missing out on at least a couple of attributes I really wanted. I was able to identify the lacking qualities as – to use the vernacular of our passion – soundstage and dynamics. No doubt the many adherents to the faith of Pass amplification will, at a minimum, be quick to call me crazy and question the acuity of my hearing. So be it. I am willing to go so far as to attribute my perceptions of problems to poor system synergy.
But after a trial with the M225s, I have sold the Pass amps – which list at four times the price of the M225s – and am now enjoying music that calls out to me, demands my attention, and pulls me in. The M225s render a very accurate, clean and clear audio picture, and present a soundstage to die for. I am convinced that they are world-beaters, certainly at anything near the price point and probably several multiples of it. Some have called it the best amp Frank has even come out with, which is a bold statement but one I must agree with.
To answer my opening questions: I am a happy audiophile, I have returned from a sojourn into non-AVA gear, and – OK, so you might not really care – I hope more audiophiles can experience this audio achievement that AVA has wrought.
System Equipment: Martin Logan CLX speakers and BalancedForce subs, Audio Research Ref 6 preamp, PS Audio Stellar phono pre, Exemplar-modified Oppo UDP-205 CD deck, Denon DP-75 TT/Kuzma 4 Pt tonearm/My Sonic Labs cart."My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.
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January 24, 2022, 10:58 PM #52
- Join Date
- May 2013
- Location
- Tallahassee, Florida/Greenville, SC
- Posts
- 3,242
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Like Larry I'm a big fan of the current Van Alstine amps and own the Vision SET 400 in one of my systems but another option worth exploring are the two amps from Kinki Studio. I own the EX-M7 stereo amp but they are also available as mono amps the EX-B7's for the same price as the DVA-225's. Slightly different sound profiles but really good amps for the money. The Kinki amps have both SE and XLR inputs.
Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack
Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810
Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.
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February 2, 2022, 11:14 AM #53
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,041
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
I did listen to the E1x, I posted my impressions in a thread on the Bel Canto forum here if anyone is interested.
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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March 14, 2022, 04:11 PM #54
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Here's what I think my list has evolved to.
Currently have the Enleum, and really enjoying it. I get more pleasure listening to my system than any other system I've had and I'm sure the Enleum is part of the reason, it will take a lot to replace it. I'm actually a bit hesitant to rotate others in because I'm having trouble imagining how much better something else could sound, but at the same time realize there's plenty out there, in my range, I could like more. But also out of laziness for the effort and not wanting to hear my girlfriend whining at me....
1- Aavik i-280 (another Class D apparently, built on something called UMUC? Anyone familiar?). Hard to find pre-owned in US.
2- NAD M23 (I don't need most of what the M33 has to offer, and the Lumin X1 has Leedh for volume control). I'm wondering if these can be used as dual mono's by buying 2.
3- Pass Int-60 or 30.8. Everyone loves Pass. I get it. These are far bigger and heavier than what I'd like, but I'd try them if I could find one local (no shipping).
Three that just depend if I can find one in my budget. Lots and lots of great things said.
4- Soulution Int 330, or 311.
5- Constellation Inspiration 1.0
6- Bakoon 41 or 51
Amps that interest me but I won't try because I worry about resale when I eventually get the bug for something else: Van Alstines, ADG Vivace GAN amps (heard these at Florida expo and they sounded wonderful).Main System
Lumin X1 > Boulder 1161 > Scansonic MB3.5 B
Headphones
Home: HiFiMan Susvara > Schiit Lyr+
Portable: Focal Radiance > AQ Dragonfly Cobalt / Chord Hugo 2
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March 14, 2022, 05:04 PM #55
- Join Date
- Dec 2019
- Location
- San Diego
- Posts
- 183
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
The Bakoons/Enleums are nice but I get it. One thing it doesn’t have that can be beneficial are XLR inputs. The 41 and 51, you’ll just get more of the same sound that you’re enjoying already.
You might want to try something with a little more power that would be my recommendation.
Fwiw, my Bakoon 51R checkboxed my amp lust. Some others that were on my list.
Luxman 595
AGD dual monos
Dartzheel Int
Gryphon Essence_______________
Main Room: Fleetwood Sound Co. Deville SQ < Bakoon AMP-51R | < Mola Mola Tambaqui < Grimm Audio MU1
>>>BACCH-SP adio
Loft: Apple HomePod Mini
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March 14, 2022, 06:49 PM #56
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Definitely. I have very good/expensive XLR interconnects that made a huge difference in a few systems, after trying the top end of many other well-rated ones, that I'd love to be able to use again. I don't really want to spend 4k on RCA interconnects to get to that level again.
I do really love the Enleum sound which is why I'd like to try the 41 or 51.
- Luxman I've seen described as warm and tube-like, which isn't really my thing. Also not a fan of that retro styling.
- AGD I heard at the Florida expo; they were one of the best rooms there and they are on my list above, but I won't go out of my way due to the reason I gave.
- Would be interested in Dartzeel but I'm not sure I've seen them in my range (<10k-ish pre-owned)
- Gryphon ruled out on 3 counts. Too too big, showed to g/f she gave them a big "not in the living room", seen - the Diablo at least - described as on the warm side and not sure that's what I want. That said if I saw an Essence for an incredible price I'd probably do it.Main System
Lumin X1 > Boulder 1161 > Scansonic MB3.5 B
Headphones
Home: HiFiMan Susvara > Schiit Lyr+
Portable: Focal Radiance > AQ Dragonfly Cobalt / Chord Hugo 2
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March 15, 2022, 01:13 PM #57
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
If you did want to try a NAD C 298 I just put mine up for sale because I just completed my Mc Stack... great amp, and I am tempted to keep it, but I simply hate having gear (especially brand new gear) sitting and not being enjoyed.
McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105
“One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
"You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
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March 16, 2022, 09:29 AM #58
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Main System
Lumin X1 > Boulder 1161 > Scansonic MB3.5 B
Headphones
Home: HiFiMan Susvara > Schiit Lyr+
Portable: Focal Radiance > AQ Dragonfly Cobalt / Chord Hugo 2
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August 12, 2022, 07:08 PM #59
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Decision (and purchase) made!
Was able to try out a few of the amps on the list, and a few others, but in the end one stood out to me, checked all my boxes.
If I had to say what lesson I learned, it would be there are many really excellent sounding amps, it’s just up to what you prefer. Some more forward, some more laid back, some more romantic, some more analytic, and so on. The one I chose satisfies my tastes, and there were others that would likely be preferred by other people.
Fwiw, I ended up spending around double my original budget.
While I’m waiting for it to arrive, have to say I still absolutely love listening to the Enleum. And would have been very happy keeping it, other than the one I ended up going with just gives me a bit more of what I like most.
Once the amp is here and settled in, I’ll reveal the winner as well as where I purchased (kudos to them for helping through the journey). I’ll have a small listening session for the Suncoast Audio Society group after a few weeks of burn-in, in case you’re in the area.
Next up…. Maybe speakers.Main System
Lumin X1 > Boulder 1161 > Scansonic MB3.5 B
Headphones
Home: HiFiMan Susvara > Schiit Lyr+
Portable: Focal Radiance > AQ Dragonfly Cobalt / Chord Hugo 2
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August 13, 2022, 06:30 AM #60
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
That's a troubling statement! You've done exactly right in making a short list of amps to try - hopefully all tried at home with your speakers, otherwise a bit of an academic exercise!
Now you say maybe speakers next. Choosing the right speakers for your room should be Job No 1 as it's the room acoustics that governs this choice and one very good speaker (in showrooms, shows and reviews) may be dire in your own room - as I found out to my cost after buying the highly regarded Martin Logan 13A Expression, that sadly didn’t appreciate my room one bit!
But once you do find the right speaker, you'll be back to square one regarding the most suitable amp to power it. Your new speaker may have very different sensitivity and may present a very difference load to the amp and these factors alone may render your new amp purchase less than ideal. Also the new amp may offer the best sound with your existing speakers, but it may not be the best sounding with your future new speakers.
I hope your “Next up…. Maybe speakers” is still several years in the future!Sources - NAD M50.2 (streamer, CD player, CD ripper, hard drive music store)
Amplification - NAD M33 all-in-one, NAD M12 preamp (in reserve), Atma-Sphere Class D monos
Speakers - Avantgarde Duo XD, Avantgarde Duo (2006) - both aesthetically modified
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August 13, 2022, 10:30 AM #61DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.
www.getbettersound.com
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August 14, 2022, 08:49 AM #62
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
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August 14, 2022, 08:51 AM #63
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August 20, 2022, 01:00 PM #64
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
9C3EDB6B-5E95-448E-8651-1948AE3C5084.jpeg
The winner: Boulder 1161
Very happy to have found this amp, love the synergy I’m getting even after just a few hours.
I tried several on my original list/this thread, although not all, plus some others. Would be surprised if I found one I didn’t try, that I’d like substantially more than the Boulder.
Many thanks to Mike, Mike and Matt at Suncoast Audio for taking me on the journey. It led somewhere a bit unexpected, but immensely satisfying. They made it an easy, fun process, and gently nudged me in the direction that ended up being best, without ever a hint of pushiness, just sincere interest in helping. Their passion for the hobby is evident; they’re patient and they’re friendly. I heartily recommend dealing with these guys if you have the opportunity.Main System
Lumin X1 > Boulder 1161 > Scansonic MB3.5 B
Headphones
Home: HiFiMan Susvara > Schiit Lyr+
Portable: Focal Radiance > AQ Dragonfly Cobalt / Chord Hugo 2
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August 30, 2022, 07:53 AM #65
Re: Help build my list of amps to try
Humm ... well the Camp Amp is just the ticket for distortion lovers but objectively its performance is abysmal. Check out the review at ASR, (Pass ACA Class A Power Amplifier Review | Audio Science Review (ASR) Forum).
NAD amps based on Purifi technology, such as the M33 or M23 should do a nice job but you don't have to spend that kind of cash for Purifi-based amp in a nice case.
For that check out Nord Nord Three SE 1ET400A MKII Dual Mono Stereo, (here), about US$1950. Also, see the ASR review (3 channel version), (here).
~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
Great looking room and system! And, nice vinyl collection! Congrats to the new Clarysis owner!
Clarisys Audio Studio Plus Install...