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Any of my existing amps work on Quad ESL-57's

Hi All,

I just purchased a pair of ESL-57's and will be keeping my eyes open or suitable amps. I'm not sure whether what I have in house are suitable.

Currently working, I've got a super high power solid state Classe Omega and a 300b SET amp made by Quicksilver Audio. For the Omegas, besides the impedence mismatch that hampers some solid state amps, do I need to be worried about too much power? If I'm careful not to blast them, should these be OK? Per the 300b's - is this too little power? Risk of clipping? The room is 14x18x11high.

I have a pair of EL34 amps: Cary SL70's - but they need some tuning up. Seems like they could be a good match. I may send these to Cary for tuneup. Any thoughts?

Finally, I have a CAT SL2, but I want to replace the fuse resistors in it prior to using it. It's an older production model, and the newer fuse resistors are safer.

If neither of my currently working amps are recommended, I may purchase an inexpensive amp to keep me going. A Rogue Atlas Magnum, a rebuilt ST-70, maybe look around for Heathkit UA-1's or other not too expensive solutions.

Good advice appreciated. Thanks, Peter
peter_s

Showing 1 response by peter_s

peter_s OP
1,088 posts
 
Russell and Terry - thanks for you good input. I've read that the Rogue is a good match, so I'll wait until one shows up. The speakers do have the snubbers installed on them. In fact, the previous owner did push them too hard and stressed the diodes on one snubber, causing distortion in that speaker. He got a replacement snubber from WP and all was restored to normal.

It sounds like as long as I'm careful, I will be fine with what I have. The Cary may be an excellent fit too.

Best, Peter
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