A COMPLETE Re-Think...

[Ninanina]

I MAY be having a complete re-think about my system.... it's radical....:D

I am saying nothing about it yet but it might be that I will be selling a good deal of my system, which to be honest has taken me many years to come up with and that I am VERY VERY happy with.... I know, I know..... don't tell me.... it's a nightmare :mental:

However you all know what it's like when you get an idea/itch in your head don't you ???

I may well regret the change but I can always buy back the equipment that will be sold I guess. I will probably loose out financially on my equipment sales but there you go.... ;)

[Kung fu dog]

I maybe new to this but if you start basing your plans on financial sense you ll get no where. :)
Are you going to give us a clue and when should I start watching the classifieds?

[struth]

;)

[Ninanina]

I maybe new to this but if you start basing your plans on financial sense you ll get no where. :)
Are you going to give us a clue and when should I start watching the classifieds?

John you are quite right there is absolutely no financial sense in my thought of a change as I am quite sure I will loose out...

I am giving nothing away at the moment but it might be I will list my first item in the classifieds soon'ish... it will probably be my beloved Klipsch Heresy's... and I know that I cannot replace these speakers easily as the UK has so few of them, they are also the only speaker that I have owned twice as I like them that much ... but I will need the funds..... ;)

[walpurgis]

I shall be watching with interest.

Be sure about what you're planning before any large expenditure Bev.

[Ninanina]

Thanks Geoff.... I will be very careful.... :doh:

[struth]

John you are quite right there is absolutely no financial sense in my thought of a change as I am quite sure I will loose out...

I am giving nothing away at the moment but it might be I will list my first item in the classifieds soon'ish... it will probably be my beloved Klipsch Heresy's... and I know that I cannot replace these speakers easily as the UK has so few of them, they are also the only speaker that I have owned twice as I like them that much ... but I will need the funds..... ;)



Thats as bad as selling the family silver Bev..... not the Heresy's :(

[Joe]

You're going all-NVA?

[Ninanina]

Thats as bad as selling the family silver Bev..... not the Heresy's :(

I know Grant it will be a real wrench.... a sad day indeed... ;)

[Ninanina]

You're going all-NVA?

Actually Joe NO.... :eek:

[struth]

Actually Joe NO.... :eek:

A big set of Tannoys;) and a monarchy amp;);)

[Ninanina]

A big set of Tannoys;) and a monarchy amp;);)

errrr Nope.... I will not be saying anything until an item turns up tomorrow and I have enough time to evaluate it.. :D

[Audio Al]

I MAY be having a complete re-think about my system.... it's radical....:D

I am saying nothing about it yet but it might be that I will be selling a good deal of my system, which to be honest has taken me many years to come up with and that I am VERY VERY happy with.... I know, I know..... don't tell me.... it's a nightmare :mental:

However you all know what it's like when you get an idea/itch in your head don't you ???

I may well regret the change but I can always buy back the equipment that will be sold I guess. I will probably loose out financially on my equipment sales but there you go.... ;)

Doh ! :sofa:

[walpurgis]

errrr Nope.... I will not be saying anything until an item turns up tomorrow and I have enough time to evaluate it.. :D

Won't be speakers then. That's two items! :)

It's probably an A N Ongaku. :eek:

[tapid]

Wadia NO.

[Ninanina]

Won't be speakers then. That's two items! :)

It's probably an A N Ongaku. :eek:

An Ongaku... you got me Geoff.... I've obviously won the lottery :doh::doh:

[Ninanina]

I won't be revealing for a little while....;)

[southall-1998]

Bose Wave?

S.

[Ninanina]

Bose Wave?

S.

Shane you got it.... :lol:

[agk]

Thats as bad as selling the family silver Bev..... not the Heresy's :(

I would say it's heresy!

[Ninanina]

I would say it's heresy!

:rfl::rfl:

[PaulStewart]

Bev, you're such a tease

[Gazjam]

Naim Statement amps?

Cant think of a better way to lose money changing the hifi...

[jandl100]

Coo - you mean you're moving on to some decent kit for a change, Bev*? :scratch:

:whistle: ;)

___

* Bev - aka the lass who loves the kit I hate. :D

[CageyH]

I am saying nothing about it yet

Well, why start this thread then? :lol:

[The Black Adder]

Maybe a live band in your front room who can play anything you wish?

It would be nice for you to give us a hint on your direction and what you are wanting to get out of a new system. Is it sound, size, style or all of the above.

A friend of mine has had a Bose Wave for years, it's quite good for the size of it. Not for me though... I likes my big stuff. :)

[Joe]

It's a complete MCRU set-up.

[Puffin]

https://youtu.be/ZCBe7-6rw4M

[Audio Al]

One of them Pie things and a pair of cans :D

[walpurgis]

I reckon Bev is now smitten with the Tannoy sound.

It could be the System 800s may be staying or being replaced with maybe some Little Gold Monitors or similar and possibly a Monarchy Audio amp may arrive along with a TVC pre-amp of some kind, although the Audio Note is fine.

[Frazeur1]

I bet it is the Devialet Phantoms....

[Macca]

I bet it is the Devialet Phantoms....

Beat me to it. Some sort of Devaliet, anyways.

They're French, you know...

[Marco]

Nah, you're all wrong. SLIC have now brought out some amplifiers, but at the moment, it's all very 'hush hush'...! :lol: :eyebrows: ;)

Marco.

[The Black Adder]

Nah, you're all wrong. SLIC have now brought out some amplifiers, but at the moment, it's all very 'hush hush'...! :lol: :eyebrows: ;)

Marco.

Yep, I've heard those amps... it's very 'hush hush'. :lol:

[Ninanina]

You lot always crack me up... :lol::lol:

[wee tee cee]

you could do a wee AOS round tour and decide what floats yer boat......takes years getting to where you are.

Brian always tells me "you go back to the best sound that suits you"- he is almost certainly right.

Look before you leap.

[struth]

you could do a wee AOS round tour and decide what floats yer boat......takes years getting to where you are.

Brian always tells me "you go back to the best sound that suits you"- he is almost certainly right.

Look before you leap.

Yes Bev. pop up to Scotland and I will show you mine :lol:

[Ninanina]

Yes Bev. pop up to Scotland and I will show you mine :lol:

Etchings a... :eek:

Don't worry everyone, as I say I can always buy back anything I sell that I later regret...:)

[wee tee cee]

All joking aside, the Scottish AOS troops would be happy to to let you hear a diversity of kit ( all fine sounding/coming from different directions). Just worried you are going to throw the baby out with the bath water!!!!

[Macca]

I don't like to sell something until i'ved lived with the replacement for some time. Even then I'm reluctant.

[Haselsh1]

Look, for what it is worth, any change you are thinking about is fully justified because you are considering it. The fact that you want to do it means that it is justified ;)

[The Black Adder]

indeed... sometimes you just need a change.

[southall-1998]

How's the Bose Wave going Bev? Stop eating that small salad and give us the review :)

S.

[Spectral Morn]

Don't worry everyone, as I say I can always buy back anything I sell that I later regret...:)

Sadly don't assume you can. I once sold an Eminent Technology ET2 tonearm on the proviso I must be offered an opportunity to buy it back, if the guy who purchased it wanted to sell it on - yeah right, the wee shit sold it, didn't tell me about it. First I learn't was from the guy who bought it of him, who wouldn't sell it back to me before he sold it on to someone in England.

His words to me, to justify this.... well you wouldn't want it back, its not as good as a Conductor. What the ....... How dare he decide what I wanted or not. I had said to him when I learn't of Garth's betrayal to please sell it to me if he got tired of it..... and he decided not to.

So Bev sorry don't assume if you sell to someone that they will re sell it back to you if you change your mind.


Regards Neil

[Ninanina]

Neil I think you misunderstood me... ;)

What I meant was I can always re-buy the equipment again, not from the person I sell it to just a replacement. The only thing I probably could not replace easily is the Klipsch... however the rest of my equipment is reasonably easy to replace if necessary :)

[Ninanina]

Look, for what it is worth, any change you are thinking about is fully justified because you are considering it. The fact that you want to do it means that it is justified ;)

Cheers Shaun, kind of my thoughts as well :)

[Spectral Morn]

Neil I think you misunderstood me... ;)

What I meant was I can always re-buy the equipment again, not from the person I sell it to just a replacement. The only thing I probably could not replace easily is the Klipsch... however the rest of my equipment is reasonably easy to replace if necessary :)

Yes I misunderstood.


Regards Neil

[walpurgis]

I guess you've seen these Bev?

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?19491-FS-Tannoy-Super-Gold-Monitor-SGM-12X&p=677457#post677457

Just relisted.

[tapid]

Your gonna bid for a pair of my concrete loudspeakers ! ( not for sale btw)

[Colin Wonfor]

I MAY be having a complete re-think about my system.... it's radical....:D

I am saying nothing about it yet but it might be that I will be selling a good deal of my system, which to be honest has taken me many years to come up with and that I am VERY VERY happy with.... I know, I know..... don't tell me.... it's a nightmare :mental:

However you all know what it's like when you get an idea/itch in your head don't you ???

I may well regret the change but I can always buy back the equipment that will be sold I guess. I will probably loose out financially on my equipment sales but there you go.... ;)

Build a SECA it will be fun honest and cheaper.

Best Col 14 not the other one.

[Ninanina]

I guess you've seen these Bev?

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?19491-FS-Tannoy-Super-Gold-Monitor-SGM-12X&p=677457#post677457

Just relisted.

Thanks Geoff for the heads-up, however Tannoy's don't come into my plans at the moment :)

[Ninanina]

Build a SECA it will be fun honest and cheaper.

Best Col 14 not the other one.

I'm ok at most things with my hands and pretty practical so repairing cars or other things doesn't present too much difficulty but building an amp is way beyond me I'm afraid Col :doh:

[Marco]

I'm ok at most things with my hands....

:eyebrows: :eyebrows:

No, I'm NOT biting! :D

Marco.

[Ninanina]

:eyebrows: :eyebrows:

No, I'm NOT biting! :D

Marco.

:rfl::rfl:

[Kung fu dog]

Come on then , enough time has elapsed . Spill the beans!

[Gazjam]

Yes Bev. pop up to Scotland and I will show you mine :lol:

The same way you tried to with me Granty? :eek::D

BTW the Devialet stuff is awesome.
Not heard the speakers and wouldn't want to but the combined amp/dac thingie sounded incredible.

...and you can hang it on the wall, unlike 300B Set monoblocks (though you'd have fun trying...)

[Audio Al]

Electrostatics :)

[Barry]

Come on then , enough time has elapsed . Spill the beans!

Agreed - it's been three days since you started your "teaser" thread Bev. Time you told us all: otherwise it will be more a case of :steam: rather than :popcorn:.

[The Black Adder]

I think she's going to buy a HiFi. With speakers n them other things that make the music work.

I'm right.... you know I'm right. :eyebrows:

[struth]

The same way you tried to with me Granty? :eek::D

BTW the Devialet stuff is awesome.
Not heard the speakers and wouldn't want to but the combined amp/dac thingie sounded incredible.

...and you can hang it on the wall, unlike 300B Set monoblocks (though you'd have fun trying...)

is that a slur on my sexuality Gaz;) i can assure u im stricktly butter side up:D

[Marco]

Aye, duck butter side up! :lol:

Marco.

[The Black Adder]

This thread is BORING...!!!

[Firebottle]

OK Bev, we know you like to tease......................

Now as a good lass..................spill the beans, please?

[southall-1998]

OK Bev, we know you like to tease......................

Now as a good lass..................spill the beans, please?

Don't hold your breath.

S.

[Ninanina]

OK Bev, we know you like to tease......................

Now as a good lass..................spill the beans, please?

Ok it was never meant as a tease....... but I will spill the beans...

I have a Naim amp to try.... I know, I know I have been against everything Naim as I have tried lots of Naim in the past and just didn't get on with it...

But I thought I would give Naim one more try before I totally give up on it....

I never saw what all the thousands of people where 'getting' at with the Naim sound and I just didn't 'get' what they were on about to be honest... so I thought give it ONE last try to try to 'get' what people were on about were my thoughts

However I might have now 'got' it.... I love what the amp is doing.... it is completely different to the Audio Note but good nonetheless

Please don't 'get at me' for going back on my word about all things Naim... ;)

My thought behind my 'try out' of the Naim was because using my Audio Note Oto restricted me to sensitive speakers and I wish to try other speakers that are not so sensitive.... I am one of those people that thinks speakers make the most difference to the sound of a system so being able to try out other, less sensitive speakers, were my thoughts

I have the Naim driving the Tannoy 800's at the moment but will also try the LS 3/5a's and if they are not a good match I will try some other speakers, maybe from ATC or Neat...

Please don't 'get at me' for this.....:doh:

[struth]

I wont. I think its neat :doh: never thought I'd try another class D but hear I am with 4 now:)

[twickers]

All this over a Naim amp. Kin' ell.


;)

[Macca]

Why would anyone get at you?

Although now you have come out of the closet as a proper box swapper you'll have to join the rest of us in the ghetto... ;)

Which Naim amp is it?

[Ninanina]

Why would anyone get at you?

Although now you have come out of the closet as a proper box swapper you'll have to join the rest of us in the ghetto... ;)

Which Naim amp is it?

Martin it's the Nait 5si... the latest of the Nait's, so a very humble Naim to be honest... ;)

[Macca]

Big change of pace from the Oto then. Never had a Naim but heard a couple of systems - original Nait with Rogers speakers and vinyl - that was a good sound - not world beating but a cut above.

So speakers are to follow then?

[Audio Al]

:sofa: Doh ! and I thought it was going to be something :-

[Ninanina]

Big change of pace from the Oto then. Never had a Naim but heard a couple of systems - original Nait with Rogers speakers and vinyl - that was a good sound - not world beating but a cut above.

So speakers are to follow then?

Martin yes it's a complete change of pace from the Oto, totally different but not in a bad way to be honest... I like what the Naim is doing with the Tannoy's but will try my LS 3/5a's with the Nait as well and if that's not a good match I may well be trying out other speakers

Thank you for those that have not 'got at me' for this complete change of heart ;)

[walpurgis]

A Sugden A21SE might impress you more.

[Ninanina]

A Sugden A21SE might impress you more.

Geoff I've had the Sugden A21 on loan a couple of times driving speakers like the Shahinian Arc's and liked it very much, however the Naim is completely different and at the moment I like it very much... ;)

I know it goes against everything I thought about Naim, but I've come clean and I like it a lot....:doh:

[southall-1998]

I have a small liking for the Nait 5i, having owned 2 of them!

You should, and no doubt find the Naim more faster and forthright sounding over the oto.

S.

[Ninanina]

I have a small liking for the Nait 5i, having owned 2 of them!

You should, and no doubt find the Naim more faster and forthright sounding over the oto.

S.

Shane yes the Naim is faster, forthright maybe! and very musical.... Is it better than the Oto ? well no not really as it is so different.... I like both of them for different reasons... :D

[Ninanina]

I really didn't want to like this Naim as I have never thought anything Naim was any good but I have to admit I like it very much..... I can't really explain it but it has a certain 'something' and it is growing on me

It doesn't have the 'texture' of the Oto, which is superb at this, but it does have a kind of musicality that is quite addictive...

I am sorry that I have gone against all I have ever said about Naim, which hasn't been very flattering at all, but I like what the little Nait 5si is doing at the moment

I hope you all understand my thoughts and forgive me for 'rubbishing' Naim in my previous posts...

[southall-1998]

I've never heard the ''si'' incarnation from the Nait 5 family. I've read with this version, the transformer is 300va. Plenty enough power for your room, Bev.

S.

[Ninanina]

I've never heard the ''si'' incarnation from the Nait 5 family. I've read with this version, the transformer is 300va. Plenty enough power for your room, Bev.

S.

Shane yes it is quite enough power, too much really and with the Tannoy's I only have the volume at about 7/8 o ' clock. The amp is also much heavier than any Naim Nait I've picked up which I think is probably due to the larger transformer...

Do you still own a Nait Shane ? which one ?

[southall-1998]

Shane yes it is quite enough power, too much really and with the Tannoy's I only have the volume at about 7/8 o ' clock. The amp is also much heavier than any Naim Nait I've picked up which I think is probably due to the larger transformer...

Do you still own a Nait Shane ? which one ?


Nope, not at the moment. I've owned the much older Nait 5i twice. Very musical amps, if lacking a bit of grace perhaps.

These days I prefer having a warmer and smoother sound.

S.

[walpurgis]

I've never owned anything Naim. Unlikely that I will. I've heard loads of their older gear often and for extended periods. The sound was admittedly impressive in some circumstances, but not for me. (a 250 driving Saras was memorably tight and punchy, if not at all accurate. 135s driving a pair of Darius speakers was horrendous, but with AE1s on the end of the same system the 135s actually worked. Dynamics were amazing, considering how tiny the speakers were. Far too 'in yer face' for my taste though)

From reading about more recent products, I get the impression that the sound is a bit more 'mainstream' these days.

I'll stick with class A valve and SS amps. I like them. Thing is, my Class A stuff is very tight and punchy too. Even the EL34 valves!

[Ninanina]

Nope, not at the moment. I've owned the much older Nait 5i twice. Very musical amps, if lacking a bit of grace perhaps.

These days I prefer having a warmer and smoother sound.

S.

Shane I know what you mean by 'lacking a bit of grace'.... however I don't find the Nait 5si lacking warmth...

It is just so different than the Oto... but I like it and it seems to be 'waking' up the Tannoy's in a way the Oto didn't. I have my eye on some ATC and Neat speakers that might be a perfect match for the Nait.... what speakers did you use your Nait with ?

[southall-1998]

Shane I know what you mean by 'lacking a bit of grace'.... however I don't find the Nait 5si lacking warmth...

It is just so different than the Oto... but I like it and it seems to be 'waking' up the Tannoy's in a way the Oto didn't. I have my eye on some ATC and Neat speakers that might be a perfect match for the Nait.... what speakers did you use your Nait with ?


I only used JPW ML-110i. But please, bare in mind that this was in a bedroom.

S.

[Ninanina]

I've never owned anything Naim. Unlikely that I will. I've heard loads of their older gear often and for extended periods. The sound was admittedly impressive in some circumstances, but not for me. (a 250 driving Saras was memorably tight and punchy, if not at all accurate. 135s driving a pair of Darius speakers was horrendous, but with AE1s on the end of the same system the 135s actually worked. Dynamics were amazing, considering how tiny the speakers were. Far too 'in yer face' for my taste though)

From reading about more recent products, I get the impression that the sound is a bit more 'mainstream' these days.

I'll stick with class A valve and SS amps. I like them. Thing is, my Class A stuff is very tight and punchy too. Even the EL34 valves!

Geoff I have been of the same opinion of Naim generally for years and years, as you know

However you may be correct in their recent products being more 'mainstream' and certainly the little Nait 5si is sounding very good indeed. I never thought I would ever say anything good about Naim gear but this little Nait is performing very well indeed..

I think a change of speaker may be in the offing though... ;)

[walpurgis]

I suspect you'll not get on with Tannoys if you employ Naim amps.

Keep the 800s, I reckon you'll tire of the Naim sound and need something else. For the moment, have a look at the little Usher S520 speakers. They should suit the Naim well.

[Ninanina]

I suspect you'll not get on with Tannoys if you employ Naim amps.

Keep the 800s, I reckon you'll tire of the Naim sound and need something else. For the moment, have a look at the little Usher S520 speakers. They should suit the Naim well.

Geoff you may well be correct. However the Tannoy's seem to be gelling fine with the Naim at the moment and I have no intention of selling the Tannoy's. I will also look at the Usher's for a pairing with the Naim though.. Thanks.. :)

[walpurgis]

I believe 'Conan' (Carlos) is using the little Ushers with a Nait. I remember him saying how good the combination was.

[Ninanina]

That's great thanks Geoff :)

[Gazjam]

You've maybe found that magic synergy Bev that suits you! :)
And that imo is what this hifi hobby is all about.
Can throw together a lot of big money separate components and they will sound crap.

Good well matched budget kit can really hit the spot..well matched kit further up the ladder can sound even better.



Shane I know what you mean by 'lacking a bit of grace'.... however I don't find the Nait 5si lacking warmth...

It is just so different than the Oto... but I like it and it seems to be 'waking' up the Tannoy's in a way the Oto didn't. I have my eye on some ATC and Neat speakers that might be a perfect match for the Nait.... what speakers did you use your Nait with ?

[Ninanina]

You've maybe found that magic synergy Bev that suits you! :)
And that imo is what this hifi hobby is all about.
Can throw together a lot of big money separate components and they will sound crap.

Good well matched budget kit can really hit the spot..well matched kit further up the ladder can sound even better.

Thanks and you may well be right Gazjam... I absolutely NEVER expected to like anything that Naim produced but as an ever optomist I was willing to try yet another product from Naim.... I didn't like anything that I have had from Naim over many many years of trying to 'like' their stuff and this is probably one of the cheapest amps I have had in my front room

The little Nait 5si seems to be very musical and quite addictive somehow.... I think a change of speakers will probably enhance it further still... :)

[DSJR]

Martin it's the Nait 5si... the latest of the Nait's, so a very humble Naim to be honest... ;)

Just don't drive it hard, 'cos it BITES in a nasty way.

Under the clipping level, it's nothing like the harsh screamers they made in the 80's or the mellow musical 'bolt up' 120 and 250 of their infancy and can be very nice from mid bass to upper midrange. It should teach you what valve lovers are on about when they say 'grain' in the treble though..

[CageyH]

My suggestion would be to try a pair of Graham Slee Proprius mono blocks.
Fantastic amps. Have a look at HiFi Pig for a write up. Available through the loan scheme to try at home for the cost of the postage.

[agk]

I hope it works for you Bev. My old man loves his Naim gear (CD/pre/power though not Nait) and uses Neat speakers with it. I shall ask him the model and pass the gen on.

[Frazeur1]

Bev, let us know how you think the Naim and LS3/5A works out. I used to run a Nait2 with the 5A's years ago and thought it worked rather well in a smaller room. I currently own some Naim gear and have to say, I keep coming back to it and enjoy it. The newer range to my ears is a bit more forgiving than the olive or chrome bumper era in my opinion.

Nice that you were willing to give it another shot and have an open mind about it! I think what kind of spoils the whole Naim thing for me though is it certainly is a brand that has such devout followers, and a lot of them are very closed minded with regards to other brands etc. For me, hifi is nice, but the music is the journey. There are a lot of makes, designs and topologies, whatever works best for your own ears is what matters! Sometimes the little divergent paths are well worth taking, if nothing else to learn what you like or not. Enjoy!

[agk]

I hope it works for you Bev. My old man loves his Naim gear (CD/pre/power though not Nait) and uses Neat speakers with it. I shall ask him the model and pass the gen on.

The old man has Neat Ultimatum XL6 on the end of his Naim train.

[wee tee cee]

Im surprised Bev. A Naim 5 cd player and 5i amp purchase got me back into the hi fi hobby as I just couldnt get the sound I was after. The amp certainly threw speaker drivers around like an empty tracksuit but just never let me settle down and listen to the music.

Gaz is correct...synergy is all important.

Still have a few cables din/din and din/phono lying in a drawer if you fancy a play. Thought tq speaker wire worked really well with Naim....

[Robert Onion]

I am not a Naim user myself these days but their amps can sound well if the system synergy is good - this is the key IMHO as several previous posters have pointed out already. In the past I always preferred vinyl front ends with Naim amps..........

[Ninanina]

Thanks everyone for your tips and suggestions, much appreciated :)

And thank you everyone for not 'getting' at me for my new venture...;)

[Ninanina]

Bev, let us know how you think the Naim and LS3/5A works out. I used to run a Nait2 with the 5A's years ago and thought it worked rather well in a smaller room. I currently own some Naim gear and have to say, I keep coming back to it and enjoy it. The newer range to my ears is a bit more forgiving than the olive or chrome bumper era in my opinion.

Timothy I will be swapping to the LS3/5a's in the next couple of days and will report back what I think of the pairing with the little Naim... ;)

Can you tell me what Naim gear you have ? and what speakers are you now using ?

[Yomanze]

The Nait 5 series are good amps, but not great amps. They're like a TV in 'high contrast' to these ears. The problem with a complete rethink is that you completely lose your bearings. It isn't really important what you think over a few days or weeks, give it half a year or so & see how you feel. :)

[Ninanina]

The Nait 5 series are good amps, but not great amps. They're like a TV in 'high contrast' to these ears. The problem with a complete rethink is that you completely lose your bearings. It isn't really important what you think over a few days or weeks, give it half a year or so & see how you feel. :)

You are probably correct Neil it will only pan out over many months of listening.... however initially I am quite impressed with the little Nait... It does so much right and has an addictive sound that I like very much... ;)

[Kung fu dog]

I recently heard a naim amp played through some focal bookshelf speakers. Afraid I don't know the models for either but sounded great. The shop was demo them for another customer. The speakers could of been the aria 906 but like I say can't be sure. Heard the shop owner say he often paired them up .

[Frazeur1]

Bev, I am using a Naim Uniti1 along with a pair of Naim Nap-100 amplifiers, using only one channel of each amp, monos. I had the extra amp, so why not, it works great. I have had this system for about 3 years now, and prior to this, I had ARC, Pass Labs, and an all-out active Naim system. I like the simplicity the Uniti affords me now.

As far as speakers go, I have a pair of Swedish Larsen Model 4's, I have owned these for almost 3 years, and I haven't found much that works any better-or sounds better in my room without going crazy-money. Certainly they are unusual, and wouldn't be to everyone's taste, but I typically like omni/omni-type speakers. These things go hard up against the wall and throw a very nice soundstage, very natural sounding speaker to my ears.

[Gazjam]

Had a loan of a Nait V(itallic) and I was a bit underwhelmed tbh.

Dynamic and bright, felt like it had the loudness control set to ON.
Was bettered imo by a set of Temple Audio class D monoblocks.
Would say speaker matching is paramount, but this was with a set of Rega RS3's, a fairly neutral design that just plays what its fed and has not a lot of its own flavour to add.

Was a mate who loaned me both to set me on the right road with my new amp.
Went down the valve route...go figure!

[Ninanina]

Well I've now had two Naims in my room

Unfortunately both have had to be returned as the channel imbalance was not acceptable. This might be due to being used in a smallish room and with reasonably sensitive speakers. Apparently due the the type of Alps potentiometer that Naim use this is a common problem that even manifests itself in their £5k amps

I will probably try a Rega amp next, possibly the Elex-R, does anyone have any experience with this amp or the Elicit-R ?

[brian2957]

I use the Brio R so it will be interesting to see how you get on with one of the bigger amps Bev .

[Frazeur1]

Bev, I would suppose the Alps pot could give a little bit of a fit, especially as you say, you are using very sensitive speakers which probably aren't the best match overall for the Naims, especially using very little on the volume pot. I would have been interested in how the Naim would have done with the LS3/5a's though, you might have been playing in a different spot then.

Naim certainly isn't the dogs danglies for everyone for sure, the system has to work as a whole. I guess looking at what you have, not sure why I would even be looking at anything else-other than getting flavors for other things, but wow, your setup with the AN tube integrated and Tannoys/Klipsch seems like a good one to me.

At any rate, have fun whichever way the journey rolls!

[Marco]

Hi Bev,

If you're going to try some Rega gear, then I'd recommend you deal with our very own hifi dave, as:

a) he knows it inside out and will provide you with an unrivalled quality of service.
b) you'll get an AoS discount! ;)

Marco.

[guy]

Well I've now had two Naims in my room

Unfortunately both have had to be returned as the channel imbalance was not acceptable. This might be due to being used in a smallish room and with reasonably sensitive speakers. Apparently due the the type of Alps potentiometer that Naim use this is a common problem that even manifests itself in their £5k amps



As you liked the Naim sound, you could consider the Nait 3.
It isn't as bad amongst the Nait range as some would have you believe (vastly underrated in my opinion), they have a balance control and can be picked up very cheap on ebay, so if you find that you don't like it there won't be a great financial loss.

[jandl100]

As you liked the Naim sound, you could consider the Nait 3.
It isn't as bad amongst the Nait range as some would have you believe

Oh yes it is! :lol:

My gawd - I still recall with a shudder the horrible shrieking mess a Nait 3 amp made of music when introduced very briefly into my system. :doh:

Still - Bev is maintaining her rep with me as the lass who loves the kit I hate. So who knows - maybe a Nait 3 is her dream amp. :thumbsup:

[dougmon]

I started reading this thread because I just went through the process of re-thinking part of my system. So, while I may not be qualified to comment on some of the choices made, I do understand. So I'm offering my two cents here, but of course, take what I say with a grain of salt.

Several years back I went from all-tube amplification to an all-Naim system. It took me a year of living with that before I went back to tubes. What Naim fans call "PRAT" translated for me into a kind of jitteriness (if that's a word) that made listening to music unpleasant. So when I decided to make another switch from tubes to solid-state amplification, I went with a class A amp. For me, it made the transition from tubes a little more pleasant. While I am plainly not listening to tube amplification, I'm also missing some of (what I perceive as) the "sharp edges" that much solid-state has.

So maybe a class A amp for you? Couldn't say, but it might work. I do know that some good class A amps are made in the UK, so they might be easier for you to find than they were for me. Though if you're looking for a lot of power, that might not be the way to go either.

You also said you might try Rega? Good choice. I have a friend with a Rega system, and we've listened to it for hours without fatigue. I think Rega makes great stuff; I have a Planet 2000 CDP that I think is better than almost any other CDP I've listened to in a while.

And if you're thinking of getting different speakers....well...you do know that Harbeth is the only brand, right? :) Seriously, though, I think that the Rogers you're talking about might be good. When I wanted new speakers, the only ones I auditioned were what I thought of as "BBC-style" speakers; Spendors, Harbeths, and a few other brands (that I don't remember, sorry).

[Ninanina]

Hi Doug
I actually do know what you mean when you say "a kind of jitteriness"... I never felt 'calm' listening to the Naim sound, however the Naim did have 'something' but I can't quite put my finger on it.....

A Class A solid-state amp is something that I am also considering

I have gone back to the Audio Note and the Tannoy's and I do feel much more 'at home'.... I think I have something quite special and maybe I shouldn't mess with it too much :doh::doh:

[struth]

You'd like that Monarchy Bev

[southall-1998]

Or my Kraken ;)

S.

[Ninanina]

You'd like that Monarchy Bev

You may well be right Grant...... however I have my eye on a rare and rather expensive Class A amp.... I will have to save my pennies... Don't ask... :D

[struth]

If you ever get the chance of a MF A1000 then take it... best A amp Ive ever heard.Should have kept mine I think

[dougmon]

Hi Doug
I actually do know what you mean when you say "a kind of jitteriness"... I never felt 'calm' listening to the Naim sound, however the Naim did have 'something' but I can't quite put my finger on it.....


I know what you mean, but I think Rega has that "something" too, but without the sharp edges. As another forum member reminded me, though, we all hear differently.



A Class A solid-state amp is something that I am also considering

I have gone back to the Audio Note and the Tannoy's and I do feel much more 'at home'.... I think I have something quite special and maybe I shouldn't mess with it too much :doh::doh:

I really wish I could go back to tubes, but my personality just won't allow it. After a few decades of mostly using tubes, I realized I was spending an excessive amount for tube-rolling just trying to find that right tone. So I went for a Class A amp with tone controls. :D

If I had everything the way I wanted it (including the personality adjustment needed to deal with tubes without wanting to change everything every month), I'd probably have AN amplification and DAC. Every AN system I've ever heard has been fantastic.

[Ninanina]

....I think Rega has that "something" too, but without the sharp edges

That was my thinking as well...


I'd probably have AN amplification and DAC

Which is exaclty what I have so maybe I should just keep what I have... with a little eye on a solid-state Class A.... :D

[walpurgis]

Pure Class A

http://i57.tinypic.com/n1qgyq.jpg

[walpurgis]

Mind you. So are these.

http://i60.tinypic.com/2d782f4.jpg

[struth]

As is this

http://izayoizero.myweb.hinet.net/20120317a.jpg

[walpurgis]

And this.

http://i59.tinypic.com/2w7py6u.jpg

And yes. I'm just showing off :D

[r100]

a F35 VTOL ?

[walpurgis]

a F35 VTOL ?

Do they come in Class A?

[r100]

no, sorry Sir, only stealthy with vents

[montesquieu]

All this rethink stuff is bringing on some anecdotes ...

Like the time a certain Berkshire dealer who had serviced my then LP12 (that's how long ago this was) decided I should audition some stuff when he brought it back. I had some single-driver folded horns at the time driven by single-ended audion 300bs .... not exactly default territory. Anyway this guy decided that the speakers could be improved on, so he brought out a pari of Dali something or other mini-floorstanding cat coffins with ribbon tweeters that could double as paint stripping implements. Terrible. This of course he blamed on the 9w amps, so he went off to get a Naim Supernait from the car boot. Better (he said) though I personally wasn't impressed at all (it just made the Dalis even worse). Then he decided that my classical music was wrong for the kit, so we went off for a Led Zeppelin record. Much better, he said. There he was listening to his speakers, his amp, his music, in my house, after telling me my kit was rubbish.

What a tit.

Anyway I never dealt with him again but neither did I ever bother checking out Naim ever again. You'd have to be tone deaf to take prefer of those over a decent valve amp.

The subject got me thinking about the previous times I've blown up a functioning system, that I'd taken in a particular direction as far as it could go ... that horn system was a sort of first attempt (bit of a dead end really) ... then I had a go with Quad 57s (a couple of pairs including a special Lindley-Allen modded set which some here remember), then latterly Tannoys, currently on my fourth iteration of Gold or HPD DCs. Changing speakers starts a chain reaction back, starting with the amp ... I'm in no doubt that the choice of speaker dictates so much about the direction of a system.

[Marco]

Like the time a certain Berkshire dealer who had serviced my then LP12 (that's how long ago this was) decided I should audition some stuff when he brought it back. I had some single-driver folded horns at the time driven by single-ended audion 300bs .... not exactly default territory. Anyway this guy decided that the speakers could be improved on, so he brought out a pari of Dali something or other mini-floorstanding cat coffins with ribbon tweeters that could double as paint stripping implements. Terrible. This of course he blamed on the 9w amps, so he went off to get a Naim Supernait from the car boot. Better (he said) though I personally wasn't impressed at all (it just made the Dalis even worse). Then he decided that my classical music was wrong for the kit, so we went off for a Led Zeppelin record. Much better, he said. There he was listening to his speakers, his amp, his music, in my house, after telling me my kit was rubbish.

What a tit.


Name and shame, I say!! :guns:

F*ckers like that should be allowed to trade.

Marco.

[walpurgis]

Name and shame, I say!! :guns:

F*ckers like that should be allowed to trade.

Marco.

Damn right! The guy sounds like a complete arse.

[struth]

Damn right! The guy sounds like a complete arse.

well he did live in BERKshire:eyebrows:

I'll get me coat

[Andrei]

All this rethink stuff is bringing on some anecdotes ...

Like the time a certain Berkshire dealer who had serviced my then LP12 (that's how long ago this was) decided I should audition some stuff when he brought it back. I had some single-driver folded horns at the time driven by single-ended audion 300bs .... not exactly default territory. Anyway this guy decided that the speakers could be improved on, so he brought out a pari of Dali something or other mini-floorstanding cat coffins with ribbon tweeters that could double as paint stripping implements. Terrible. This of course he blamed on the 9w amps, so he went off to get a Naim Supernait from the car boot. Better (he said) though I personally wasn't impressed at all (it just made the Dalis even worse). Then he decided that my classical music was wrong for the kit, so we went off for a Led Zeppelin record. Much better, he said. There he was listening to his speakers, his amp, his music, in my house, after telling me my kit was rubbish.
Excellent! I suppose the bit of your kit that he got to understand was the back door.

[dougmon]

Pure Class A

http://i57.tinypic.com/n1qgyq.jpg

I know someone who uses two of these as monoblocks with a tube preamp; it's quite a nice sound.

[The Black Adder]

Have you considered a big Chord amp, Bev...?

[Puffin]

What sort of sound do you like Bev?

Warm and cosy, delicate and sweet, big and ballsy, detailed and analytical?

I ask because I often want all of these for different reasons, that's why IMO putting together a system that is all things to all music and all things to one's (daily/hourly) taste is really a nightmare.

In the last few days I have gone from having a very complicated system with a hundred bits to turn on and off each time, with it soundings rather good, to taking it all down, cleaning it and basically starting again.

I now have a very basic system, Power Amp, CD player (variable) into amp, and then speakers. It is a bit of a revelation. Some would say well that is all you need isn't it?

The tweaker and hobbyist in me makes me want to try the unusual, say 2 sets of speakers, one or more out of phase, gadgets that are supposed to enhance sound (phase inversion) Buffers, subwoofers etc etc.

I know that if I had not done this for years I would perhaps not now appreciate the simplicity and honesty of what I am currently listening to. Itchy fingers and madness may well change the current set up.......but for now it is sounding pretty good.

I suppose what I am saying is have a go at something different. Use what you have got and see if you can make it work for you.

Oh..... and you probably need to be a depressive like me to begin to understand what drives me (or not as the hour takes me)

Regards:)

[Spectral Morn]

A Sugden A21se might be worth trying Bev.



Regards Neil

[walpurgis]

I now have a very basic system, Power Amp, CD player (variable) into amp, and then speakers. It is a bit of a revelation. Some would say well that is all you need isn't it?

How long will that last Rob? :)

[Puffin]

How long will that last Rob? :)

Ooh about as long as a piece of Ratners jewellery. And we all know that a prawn sandwich lasts longer:D

[ff1d1l]

Hi Doug
I actually do know what you mean when you say "a kind of jitteriness"... I never felt 'calm' listening to the Naim sound, however the Naim did have 'something' but I can't quite put my finger on it.....

A Class A solid-state amp is something that I am also considering

I have gone back to the Audio Note and the Tannoy's and I do feel much more 'at home'.... I think I have something quite special and maybe I shouldn't mess with it too much :doh::doh:

Currently under the radar and cheap if you can find one Luxkit (Luxman) Z501 or the bigger and even less common Z504 (which I'd like to try, but don't have). They're Class A - Z501 up to 25 watts, the Z504 up to a 100, I think. They are open, glass clear and dynamic beyond their rating - not hard or fatiguing. They replaced a modded Leak stereo 20 in my system which was far in advance of a stock Leak. They are better amps than everything else I've owned including a Krell KSA100, except the monster JVC's I use in the premier system. The JVC's are pretty well unobtainium, but the Luxkits do surface from time to time.
Hi Fi Shark might be your friend...

They sound exceptional into Tannoys....

[Barry]

Pure Class A

http://i57.tinypic.com/n1qgyq.jpg

So are these:

http://rs780.pbsrc.com/albums/yy88/barrydhunt/ML21.jpg~c200

http://www.highendclassics.com/brands/marklevinsonml2-2

http://www.wtconcept.com/levinsonml2/

[Ninanina]

Have you considered a big Chord amp, Bev...?

I have never considered Chord amps, I believe they are pretty expensive and I'm not sure I really like their style to be honest... are they Class A though ?

[walpurgis]

Nice Class A power amp Bev.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/131588533027?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

[Ninanina]

Rob it is very difficult to describe what sort of sound I like but here goes:

A non fatiguing sound would be top of my list as I like to listen for hours
A fairly detailed sound but not 'sharp' and not so analytical it detracts from the music
An emotional sound, now that's a tricky one to explain
I don't need massive bass and I don't like a bass that overpowers the music
I like to hear the vocals as natural as possible and where it is very easy to follow the words.. 'expressive' if that makes sense
A 'touch' of warmth but only so that it's an easy listen (kinda back to the non fatiguing bit!)

I think my Oto gives me most of the above, however maybe, just maybe, a touch more 'ballsy' as Rob mentions wouldn't go a miss

I guess that's why I was thinking that a Class A solid-state 'might' tick the boxes... but what do I know ? :doh:

[Spectral Morn]

Rob it is very difficult to describe what sort of sound I like but here goes:

A non fatiguing sound would be top of my list as I like to listen for hours
A fairly detailed sound but not 'sharp' and not so analytical it detracts from the music
An emotional sound, now that's a tricky one to explain
I don't need massive bass and I don't like a bass that overpowers the music
I like to hear the vocals as natural as possible and where it is very easy to follow the words.. 'expressive' if that makes sense
A 'touch' of warmth but only so that it's an easy listen (kinda back to the non fatiguing bit!)

I think my Oto gives me most of the above, however maybe, just maybe, a touch more 'ballsy' as Rob mentions wouldn't go a miss

I guess that's why I was thinking that a Class A solid-state 'might' tick the boxes... but what do I know ? :doh:

Sugden A21se

http://dagogo.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/SugdenA21SE-large.jpg

http://www.dagogo.com/sugden-audio-a21se-integrated-amplifier-review


Regards Neil

[Puffin]

I think you have a real Dalai lama.

I was listening to my "new" system today and some stuff sounded wonderful and some not so. I know that this can be down to production and mastering and the alignment of all the planets blah. blah, blah.......but my old crazy lash up was most things to most music. Hmmmm difficult init.

[southall-1998]

The A21se looks a good suggestion!

S.

[Ninanina]

The Sugden is one I will consider.. thanks all.. :)

[Spectral Morn]

The Sugden is one I will consider.. thanks all.. :)

Its an option you should be able to arrange a home audition.


Regards Neil

[Marco]

You might want to investigate the earlier version too, Bev, which IMO sounded better. It's the one here being reviewed in Stereophile (scroll down passed the speakers):

http://www.stereophile.com/content/fifth-element-20-page-2#KSjZlgvFmpsbUrfh.97

My understanding is that Sugden could no longer obtain certain key components for the amp from suppliers, which forced them to rethink the design a little and come up with the new one, pictured in Neil's post above.

The older one had a richer, sweeter sound, which really was a very addictive musical listen :)

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

You might want to investigate the earlier version too, Bev, which IMO sounded better. It's the one here being reviewed in Stereophile (scroll down passed the speakers):

http://www.stereophile.com/content/fifth-element-20-page-2#KSjZlgvFmpsbUrfh.97

My understanding is that Sugden could no longer obtain certain key components for the amp from suppliers, which forced them to rethink the design a little and come up with the new one, pictured in one of the posts above.

The older one had a richer, sweeter sound, which really was an addictive musical listen :)

Marco.

Never heard that version but I have heard folks say what you have just said.


Regards Neil

[Marco]

I've heard both amps side by side in the same system, Neil, and the older one I linked to kicked the new one's ass. It was like comparing a nice pair of NOS 1950s Mullard ECC83s to a pair of current production Electro-Harmonix, in terms of tone and musical communication.

Marco.

[walpurgis]

You might want to investigate the earlier version too, Bev, which IMO sounded better. It's the one here being reviewed in Stereophile (scroll down passed the speakers):

http://www.stereophile.com/content/fifth-element-20-page-2#KSjZlgvFmpsbUrfh.97

My understanding is that Sugden could no longer obtain certain key components for the amp from suppliers, which forced them to rethink the design a little and come up with the new one, pictured in Neil's post above.

The older one had a richer, sweeter sound, which really was a very addictive musical listen :)

Marco.

I agree. That's the one I'd have. The Original A21A. There just happens to be a mint example in black on eBay right now that I'm watching. I could get tempted. :)

[AlfaGTV]

I think you are describing the Karan KA I180 Bev! :)
But then, i'd say that wouldn't i? ;)
To me the Karan represents the "having the cake and eating it too" as it sounds as smooth as a tube amp, got the balls and drive of an AB beast and all of this coupled with the power consumption of a class D amp!
Of course you would need to get a good listen to their sound somewhere but if you have the chance?

[southall-1998]

You might want to investigate the earlier version too, Bev, which IMO sounded better. It's the one here being reviewed in Stereophile (scroll down passed the speakers):

http://www.stereophile.com/content/fifth-element-20-page-2#KSjZlgvFmpsbUrfh.97

My understanding is that Sugden could no longer obtain certain key components for the amp from suppliers, which forced them to rethink the design a little and come up with the new one, pictured in Neil's post above.

The older one had a richer, sweeter sound, which really was a very addictive musical listen :)

Marco.



So, what if the original A21a needs servicing. Can Sugden themselves still retain its sound signature?

S.

[struth]

good question, and presumably no.

[montesquieu]

Name and shame, I say!! :guns:

F*ckers like that should be allowed to trade.

Marco.

Well it was 8 years or so ago, but they are still very much in business, as a Linn dealer (in theory) but more generally as a home cinema installation type specialist outfit. The joke is that back then (and for 20+ years previously) I was happy with a turntable that needed a dealer to look after it. All changed not long after when I had a serious listen at a Townshend Rock (which ate my much-loved Linn for breakfast) and the rest is history .....


I think you are describing the Karan KA I180 Bev! :)
But then, i'd say that wouldn't i? ;)
To me the Karan represents the "having the cake and eating it too" as it sounds as smooth as a tube amp, got the balls and drive of an AB beast and all of this coupled with the power consumption of a class D amp!
Of course you would need to get a good listen to their sound somewhere but if you have the chance?

Hmm only Karan I ever heard had me screaming for the emergency exits but it could have been the speakers (which I can't remember, was too traumatised).

BTW I support what all have said about Sugden, if I was in the market for a good solid state amp (if for some reason I couldn't have valves - have no idea what that reason might be, having said that!) I'd be looking for a used Masterclass power amp or integrated, though I agree that sound per pound the A21a extremely hard to beat.

[Marco]

So, what if the original A21a needs servicing. Can Sugden themselves still retain its sound signature?


That won't matter, as Bev will have sold it and moved onto something else, long before then! :D

Only kidding... Yes, more seriously, sensible companies (such as Naim, I know for a fact) will reserve some stock of key components to enable them to service older gear, for a period of time. I should imagine that Sugden would've done the same.

Marco.

[Marco]

Well it was 8 years or so ago, but they are still very much in business, as a Linn dealer (in theory) but more generally as a home cinema installation type specialist outfit. The joke is that back then (and for 20+ years previously) I was happy with a turntable that needed a dealer to look after it. All changed not long after when I had a serious listen at a Townshend Rock (which ate my much-loved Linn for breakfast) and the rest is history .....


You're still not naming them, Tom... Are you scared they're going to spank your bottee for being bad? :D

Come on, spill the beans... Good dealers deserve to be praised, and bad ones, berated!

Marco.

[Joe]

The problem here (if it is a problem) is taking blind 'punts' on random amplifiers. Look at the recommendations you've received, almost none of which attract universal praise: to add my twopennys worth, I (briefly) owned a Sugden Masterclass integrated and thought it sounded horrible.

Now, if you're a budding box swapper like Jerry, that doesn't matter. You buy, try, sell on and never actually settle on anything. Personally, that would drive me scatty, but he obviously enjoys the process. But if you want to find the 'right' amplifier, you need to ignore recommendations, however well-meant, and make the choice based around your speakers, room, and musical tastes. But then you seem undecided about speakers, too ....

Maybe the only solution is to do what we used to do in the olden days. Visit a dealer, outline your requirements, and see what he suggests, either just for amps, or for an amp/speaker combination. Then get a demo of the shortlisted items. These days, almost all dealers will allow you to borrow stuff for a while, so once you've eliminated the obvious non-starters you can check out what works in your room. It means buying new, (unless you dishonestly identify the right items and then source them secondhand) which I know is anathema to many on here, but it might save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

Blimey, that was a long post. I need a lie-down now.

[AlfaGTV]

Hmm only Karan I ever heard had me screaming for the emergency exits but it could have been the speakers (which I can't remember, was too traumatised).
.

I cannot argue with your experience, but belive there was something seriously wrong with the setup... :/
Karan is not particularly fuzzy bout speakers, but the smaller amps are more comfy with speakers that keep above 4ohms.
Other than that they simply let through whats on your sources.

Have never heard a Sugden in a proper environment. Did have a Luxman L-550 for a while which was true jewel of the class A brigade.
When i think about it i actually have another Class A amp tucked away, a Shanling SLM A40 Mk II! It needs an adjustment though but sounds great when warmed up properly.

[jandl100]

Another 2p-worth from me, Bev.
Always handy as our audio tastes are so different you'll know that you just get the exact opposite of what I say ... ;)

Solid state class A has been tried many times, chez Jerry. Always a somewhat boring sound that tracks the music's dynamics quite slowly and smooths things over. Not for me, but may be good for you.

Karan 180 integrated - does the class A like thing in spades, even though I don't think it's a class A device, it has that kind of sound, imo - turned a friend's system I quite liked for its get up and go, into dreadful tedium. He still likes it, though, and it is now many years since he Karanised his system.

[Marco]

Interesting, Jerry, and to a degree I can relate to what you're saying. However, the Sugden A21a I've referred to above (a Class A design), most certainly did not sound to me as you've described SS Class A amps as sounding :)

Of course, as with any piece of kit, it has to be heard in a system that optimises its strengths. Too many folk, IMO, form conclusive opinions about kit: such-and-such sounds 'smooth', or such-and-such sounds 'bright', having only heard it in one context - and perhaps the wrong one.

One has to remember that a good hi-fi system isn't achieved by simply having a random collection of boxes, but rather by creating a holistic entity, with care and attention by the user, to produce rewarding sounding music. To achieve that, however, requires an understanding of exactly what is wanted in the first place, and most importantly, how to achieve it.

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

The problem here (if it is a problem) is taking blind 'punts' on random amplifiers. Look at the recommendations you've received, almost none of which attract universal praise: to add my twopennys worth, I (briefly) owned a Sugden Masterclass integrated and thought it sounded horrible.

Now, if you're a budding box swapper like Jerry, that doesn't matter. You buy, try, sell on and never actually settle on anything. Personally, that would drive me scatty, but he obviously enjoys the process. But if you want to find the 'right' amplifier, you need to ignore recommendations, however well-meant, and make the choice based around your speakers, room, and musical tastes. But then you seem undecided about speakers, too ....

Maybe the only solution is to do what we used to do in the olden days. Visit a dealer, outline your requirements, and see what he suggests, either just for amps, or for an amp/speaker combination. Then get a demo of the shortlisted items. These days, almost all dealers will allow you to borrow stuff for a while, so once you've eliminated the obvious non-starters you can check out what works in your room. It means buying new, (unless you dishonestly identify the right items and then source them secondhand) which I know is anathema to many on here, but it might save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

Blimey, that was a long post. I need a lie-down now.

I agree re involving a dealer and arranging a home loan - one of the reasons I suggested the Sugden as they have a dealer network.


Regards Neil

[Marco]

Unfortunately, however, they'll want to sell her the latest model, which is nowhere near as good.....

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Unfortunately, however, they'll want to sell her the latest model, which is nowhere near as good.....

Marco.

It will however give Bev an opportunity to hear a Sugden and decide if she likes the sound and from that extrapolate if the older model would suit her tastes better.


Regards Neil

[Marco]

Sure :)

Marco.

[montesquieu]

You're still not naming them, Tom... Are you scared they're going to spank your bottee for being bad? :D

Come on, spill the beans... Good dealers deserve to be praised, and bad ones, berated!

Marco.


Hifi Cinema in Aldermaston. Not entirely sure they were called that then but it's the same outfit. Still predominantly Linn, Naim, Dali and assorted home cinemajiggery. (For reference: it's almost a decade since I even owned a TV).

TBH I don't thing they are really on the radar of the AoS clientelle, no tubes for a start!

[Marco]

Doesn't matter, mate. They still deserve some adverse publicity for that shocking 'service' they gave you, and Google search engines will pick up on any comments made here. They're still in business, too: http://www.hificinema.co.uk/

So, folks, DON'T TOUCH HI-FI CINEMA, IN ALDERMASTON, WITH A BARGEPOLE!

Job done :)

Marco.