845 questions

[Samac]

Very nice. I look forward to your impressions of the 300b and 845 amps.

[marcocolo]

My first post here!
Due to changes in my system I recently picked up a Art Audio Carissa Signature. I have a friend w/ a tweaked Cary 300b sei that uses the KN high wattage (18 watt) tubes. Even though his amp is sublime, I must say the 845 tube bests the 300b in being a more even presentation top to bottom.
The Carissa is not a standard 845 sound as it's spec'ed to output 16 watts rather than the normal 20 whatever. But it is so fast and even and has slam like no other set amp I've heard. Sweet mids and highs and bottom end that's controlled and articulate. His Cary bass is good but can't "hit" like the 845. On rock or "big" music the Carissa blows a 300b away.
I could probably live w/ either amp but the Carissa just makes me giddy listening to my collection.