#21
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does the LS16 have the real knobs or the twist & hold things like my LS26?
(I know... the newer knobs have better SQ -- or are easier and cheaper to attain better SQ with, but I don't like the ergonomics.) |
#22
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Comparing amplifiers. I recently picked up a VT50 that was refurnished and retubed at the factory. Love the sound... so my question is... considering the new VT80... I know the auto bias and flexibility on tubes that can be used, but other than that, sound wise???
Is there huge differences in the 15 year old amp versus the latest released amp... in sound quality, quality of build???? or is it simply the features? |
#23
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Quote:
I still think you will get more from an ARC preamp, Randy. That's where the magic happens. |
#24
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Thanks Marc. I am very happy with the STP-SE for now. My buddy back in New York that was using it for a few months compared it to many very high end models. He owns the Ayres top model pre-amp in his main system (he recently owned and sold his CJ GAT, PS Audio top model, Mc C52, lower Ayres model, and he borrowed a friends ARC Ref6).
He told me that he was pretty amazed at how the W4S pre held it's own and described it as very "neutral" and very "tube" sounding... However, I may eventually get an ARC to try out (I have become very fond of ARC). I am looking long term to plan out to me a destination amplifier. I really feel that an ARC amplifier is where I want to be; weather I keep the SS amp as a switch up I have yet to decide. For now it is nice having both. The Ampzilla is one heck of an amplifier and I personally believe that the STP-SE and the SOA are probably the two finest pieces that EJ has ever designed. Last edited by Randy Myers; 03-11-2017 at 10:56 AM. |
#25
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I feel it has mainly to do with the shift to Russian tubes around the late 80’s.
The classic power tubes are more flavorful and rich sounding. Gone are all the 6550 classic power tubes that are unavailable in matched sets. The 6dj8 and 6992 and variants of NOS that are still around, allow for a spectrum of great sound quality not available with the "one choice" Russian tubes now used in ARC’s current products. I do not think many "tube" equipment freaks today "roll" tubes for a particular "flavor" anymore. IMHO that is a big mistake. Last edited by 6dj8; 12-06-2019 at 08:52 PM. |
#26
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I just put an ARC SP-9 Mk III preamp into my home theater system.
I put NOS Golden Dragon tubes (China) in, that I had stored away. Blew away the Pass labs X1 used before. Much more warmth, 3D, and presence. My home theater system: Sony HDTV Apple TV box Sony BLu-ray player Schiit Gungnir (gumby) Cardas Golden Cross to SP-9 ARC SP 9 Cardas Cross to Son of Ampzilla 2000 Cardas Golden Cross speaker cables Magnepan IIIa speakers Sounds fantastic! |
#27
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Quote:
__________________
Glenn... Canton Reference 9 Clearaudio SM Pro Focal Bathys JLA 10" Dominion Kuzma Stabi S w/MC & MM Magnepan 1,7i McIntosh MA8950 & MR88 Oppo 203 Roon Nucleus Rose Hifi RS150B Shunyata Gemini-4 Sony ST-A6B, TA-F6B, ST-J75 & PS-X75 Sorane SA1.2 & TA-1L Stillpoints LP1v2 WW Pt, Au & Ag |
#28
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ARC has been at the top of their game and the heap in the last ten years. Every new Reference line product has been winning Product of the Year in its category.
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#29
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Boom. I agree x 1000
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#30
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I also feel reviewers tastes have shifted to a “dryer more analytic SS” type of sound in the 2000’s with regards to tube equipment. How many tube amps does Fremer review for example? Last edited by 6dj8; 01-02-2020 at 02:51 AM. |
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