Cary 300SEI - any first-hand experience?

[Alberto]

My recent experiments with the Bottlehead S.E.X. have re-ignited my interest in single-ended amps.

One of the models I want to consider is the Cary 300SEI - a beauty. Behold:



Almost every review I read about this amp (or almost any amp that uses the 300B tube) goes nuts about the SET sound. I remember reading one of Jeff Day's reviews for the Sophia 300B-based amp where he invented a new rating for it: "two hard nipples" - I am still laughing about that one.

But, here's the thing, everybody loves what these SET amps do to the music and yet you see so few people with them. I wonder why that is. They are not outrageously priced nor too fussy - yes, they have tubes but only one expensive tube per channel.

So I'd like to hear from other AAers who have experience with SET amps (especially with the 300B tubes).

Thanks,

Alberto

[f1 fan]

Alberto...while I don't own tubes a dealer nearby sells Cary. The times I've heard these I was impressed. I like the looks and the sound was nice but it's awhile since we had a listening session.

Dave

[MC352]

I have thought a lot about building one from scratch. There are tons of DIY projects on the web for SET Amps.

That Cary is a beauty. All the Cary gear is good looking.

[Islander]

I am willing to share my experience with Cary CAD-300 SE Signature monoblocks, if this thread is still alive and anyone is out there listening.

[Alberto]

Originally Posted by Islander

I am willing to share my experience with Cary CAD-300 SE Signature monoblocks, if this thread is still alive and anyone is out there listening.

Sure, I'm here and listening. Although I have settled on Shindo Cortese for my SET, I would love to hear about the Cary SE.

Please proceed .

Thanks,

Alberto

[Islander]

It would appear that you've taken the SET plunge -- good for you. I haven't heard Shindo gear, but I would love to -- I've read good things about it. I came to SET equipment from the Linn solid-state camp. I tried the Cary 300 SEI integrated amp (on loan) and loved it. Beautiful sound, almost lit from within, able to create the illusion of living, breathing musicians (especially vocalists) in the room with you. The monoblocks (which I bought, with the companion CARY SLP-98 preamp) are even better; same qualities, but a bigger stage and more dynamic. There's simply no going to back to solid-state for me. How about you?

[Alberto]

Originally Posted by Islander

It would appear that you've taken the SET plunge -- good for you. I haven't heard Shindo gear, but I would love to -- I've read good things about it. I came to SET equipment from the Linn solid-state camp. I tried the Cary 300 SEI integrated amp (on loan) and loved it. Beautiful sound, almost lit from within, able to create the illusion of living, breathing musicians (especially vocalists) in the room with you. The monoblocks (which I bought, with the companion CARY SLP-98 preamp) are even better; same qualities, but a bigger stage and more dynamic. There's simply no going to back to solid-state for me. How about you?

Unfortunately (because of the maintenance hassles and expenses with tubes) I am also firmly in tubeland and not planning to go back to solid state. All of my systems, main and secondary (for casual listening) are all tube---and all SET.

I know that many will disagree, and I haven't had the opportunity to audition some of the great modern solid-state amps (D'Agostino, DarTZeel, etc.) but they are out of my price range anyway. For me, SET + efficient speaker deliver delicious (TM ... ) sound at a great price.

Alberto

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by Alberto

delicious (TM ... ) .

Alberto....... Delicious™

You own it!

[Alberto]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Alberto....... Delicious™

You own it!

You betcha, and will prosecute all unauthorized uses to the full extent of the audiophile law .

Alberto

[Islander]

I still have my rack of Linn gear, although I don't listen to it much these days. Have you had problems with your tube gear? Do you leave it powered up in standby mode 24/7, or do you shut it off after every listening session?

Have you thought about licensing that new trademark? Maybe you could turn it into cash . . .