Tannoy+SET class a tube amp= magic

[1KW]

Congratulations Serge ! Which cartridge are you using with the SL1200 ?

[PHC1]

I decided to revisit the McIntosh MC2102 and get a feel for the difference between a great SET amp and a push-pull of higher wattage. The MC2102 did leave an impression on me with the Sophia IIIs as being warm and quite laid back type of an amp and I was very curious to hear it with the Tannoys.

The difference is very apparent, these two have a very different flavor.

The MC2102 is a warmer, more "classic tube" lush amp. The Ayon by comparison is more open, airy with quite a bit more midrange magic that stands out immediately as truly musical and engaging. The MC2102 comes across as having a bit less resolution and sparkle but is a warmer sounding amp across the board and also very enjoyable eventhough it is very evident that it is more colored of the two. CD playback is almost like listening to vinyl now with the 2102 and I haven't listened to vinyl yet. Could be too much of a good thing.

I can really appreciate the SET midrange magic even more having compared these two different topologies once again.

[Face]

That Ayon is still my favorite amp.

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by Face

That Ayon is still my favorite amp.

I would have to say that Ayon is definitely up there with the very best I've heard as well. With appropriate speakers of course. I remember also being very impressed with a particular Jadis setup many years ago but that was a long time ago.

[PHC1]

Not sure just how accurate the meters really are but the 2102 will give me at least a rough idea what kind of power the Tannoys absorb during typical listening session to see if lesser powered stuff than the Ayon was will do.

[TommyC]

Very informative comparison for those (e.g., me) who don't have access to SET amps.

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by TommyC

Very informative comparison for those (e.g., me) who don't have access to SET amps.

[PHC1]

Ok, I have yet to break the 1w mark with the type of music I would normally listen to in this room at typical listening levels. I think I am good for just about any low powered SET.

[PHC1]

As a final stress test, using the very helpful in this case "hold" function on the 2102 meters and a very dynamic reggae CD, I was able to freeze the needles at about 7-8w with the volume a bit above what I would consider comfortable level. I guess the Shindo Cortese at 10w should be able to pull it off in my room.

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by PHC1

As a final stress test, using the very helpful in this case "hold" function on the 2102 meters and a very dynamic reggae CD, I was able to freeze the needles at about 7-8w with the volume a bit above what I would consider comfortable level. I guess the Shindo Cortese at 10w should be able to pull it off in my room.

Serge,

After reading your posts (and the others), memory brought me back this combo which I nearly bought.

Dropped by the dealer and the combo is still there. The very beautiful Wavac PRT1 Preamp and the HE833v1.3 Mono Power amps. I suppose not anyone will fork out the monies for this set of powerful SET pre-power amps.

They do look as beautiful as ever and seriously, I was quoted a lower price if I am thinking to bring them home.

You might want to consider getting them for a home trail perhaps? For sure, its an SET combo and its powerful enough to drive ANY speakers! Who knows they may end up just matching your taste (like Meridian is today for me).

Cheers!