Amps used with Ref 5 SE
 

I am really enjoying my Ref 5 SE and have been thinking about whether my current amps (pair of Cary SA 500.1 mono blocks) are the best match. I have a pair of Vandersteen 5As which require a pretty good amount of power.

I am curious what amps others are using with the 5 SE. The ARC DS450Ms have been recommended to me. I have never heard them.

I had the ARC DS450 (stereo version) mated to the ARC Ref 5se - it sounded pretty good. The Classe M-600 paired with the 5se sounds even better (a lot better). The 5se works very well with the PASS amps as well.

I'm currently using the 5se with the D'Agostino stereo amp. The combination sounds sublime.

Hope this info helps!

How did you like the Class D sound? Can you tell it is running Class D vs. A or A/B?

The Ref5se is an excellent preamp. I ran it with McIntosh MC275's and Ref 250's.

Both were very good results albeit very different. You definitely have many choices with this pre but synergy with an ARC amp is something to take very seriously.

That's what my dealer is saying and why he said I should consider the DS450Ms.

I have used my Ref5se with a couple of AudioNote amps, the Ayre VX-5 (excellent), and my Ref 150. Not surprisingly, the 150 is the best match, but the others are great also. BTW, I am selling my Ref 150 as I just don't need the power in my small room. I am buying a Ref 75 to try instead. (Shameless plug, I do have it listed in the classified section here.)

What speakers did you drive with the Ref 150?

The Ref 150 would be a fantastic match for the Ref 5se and the Vandersteens - much better than the DS450Ms.

In terms of the DS amp, good value for the money. Lots of bottom end, runs cool (leave on all the time) but does not have the depth and smooth top end that is possible with class A or class A/B amps.

Dave's Ref 150 is a great option.

Devore Nines. Easy load and fairly efficient.

I have no doubt that the Ref 150 is a nicer amp. I am concerned that it may not have enough power to drive the Vandersteens which are not efficient.