Round 2: PrimaLuna HP integrated vs. McIntosh C2300/MC601

This will be short. The PL integrated simply sounds more like real instruments in real space. More air. Better detail. Deeper soundstage. Better separation of each instrument. Vocals have more body. Much better microdynamics (plucking of strings especially).

The Mac gear still sounds wonderful, but the soundstage is quite flat. The more powerful amps do seem to dig a bit deeper. This combo seems slightly more forgiving. Better at rocking out, especially with more poorly recorded heavy metal (the more forgiving nature keeps the ears from bleeding at higher volume levels).

This makes me even more want to try the DiaLogue Premium preamp and HP monoblock amps. Would the doubling in power over the integrated lead to deeper bass? Some KT150's for power tubes and NOS Mullards for the preamp driver tubes?

Gotta find a way to audition that setup with my Elipsa SE's.

Nice, thanks for the review!

I was worried that I was on Crack or simply going insane. Comparing a Chinese made, relatively inexpensive tube integrated to a stalwart of American audiophile goodness? And have the integrated come out ahead?!? What's wrong with me?!?!?

So, I had to do it again. I brought the PrimaLuna HP integrated back home and redid the comparison. We'll put it this way...my wife, from across the room and cooking dinner spoke out while I was listening to say that my stereo had never sounded better.

Round two of the comparison basically confirmed round one. Better detail, soundstage width and depth, and MUCH better imaging when using the PrimaLuna. This just shouldn't be due to cost differences and audiophile pedigree, but "it is what it is".

Well, now I am smitten and will be looking HARD at the PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium preamp and HP monoblock amps. The McIntosh equipment, despite its beauty, reputation and quality, may be going away...

Thank you for sharing your experience, Kevin. I am another happy PrimaLuna owner (for almost 7 years now). You may find this post (from a different thread) of interest:

http://www.audioaficionado.org/sonus...tml#post714838

PrimaLuna (original) Dialogue vs. Dialogue HP
 

Another happy, very happy PrimaLuna owner here. I still remember driving up to Ivan's Parkland Campus almost 3 years ago to adopt my Dialogue Premium Integrated Amp with KT-120s. Although I have not found it wanting in any way, I just ordered and will have on Friday a pair of Brimar 12AU7 tubes to try. My PL drives Theil CS2.3 loudspeakers really well, and give them bass I never knew they had before I got the PL.

I am also using the Brimar's and they are a fantastic tube. Very neutral but still with a nice midrange. The K120/Brimar 12AU7 pairing is excellent and I hope you will like them as much as I.

Me too. Thanks

As much as my OCD temps me to sell my DiaLogue Premium integrated, I cannot bring myself to do so.

My wife has essentially claimed that rig and when she sees me moving gear in and out the house I am warned NOT to touch "her" amp! This comes from someone who is TOTALLY disinterested in my hobby/sickness. :D

I'm really loving the PrimaLuna gear. Just got the DiaLogue Premium Preamp and monoblock HP amps. Absolutely terrific sound. Even though I am still breaking it all in, it is the best my system has ever sounded. Amazing sound quality for the money. Makes me realize how overpriced and overhyped a LOT of audiophile gear is.

Greg.......I can relate to that, especially for one who isn't necessarily an "audiophile" but enjoys good music. There are only two knobs on the DiaLogue Premium integrated amp, Input and Volume. That's perfect for someone who doesn't want to be overloaded with a myriad of switches, button, and knobs just to enjoy listening to their favorite music. That amplifier not only sounds good, it has a unique appearance that is attractive in its simplicity. Your wife has good taste.