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Tubes and Rock and Roll, Can they go together?

I just got back from Harvey Electronics in New Jersey. I demo-ed 2 sets of equipment:
Set 1
McIntosh MC-2102
McIntosh C-2200
McIntosh MCD-205
Sonus Cremona
Set 2
McIntosh Mc-402
McIntosh C-45
Marantz SA-11s1
Martin Logans

The CD's that were demo-ed were Various Artist. I enjoy easy listening music, but I do have a number of CD's that are classical rock (80's Rock Bands) The tube set up was incredible on Vocals and solo instuments, not to mention their stunning looks. Probably the very best I have heard to date. The problem was when I put in some classical rock, the sound became less enjoyable and almost seemed like it lost definition and it's musical appeal. When I listend to the solid state set up, it sounded better with the Rock, but it lost it's enjoyable appeal. The tubes set up, I felt I could have listened to soft music all day. Besides buying the new 15K McIntosh tube/solid state pre, is there away I can enjoy classical rock from a tube based system? Would changing speakers help? Thanks!
128x128musicaudio
jond's avatar
jond
3,400 posts
 
Musicaudio,
Why are you confined to shopping at Harvey? If you are in NJ there must be tons of good audio store in both NJ and NYC. Why not shop around and find someone to set up a good tubes/rock demo for you with appropriate speakers? Happy listening!
oneobgyn
410 posts
 
No problem

In fact I use Lamm ML 2.1's (18 wpc SET) driving Wilson X-2 (750 lb speakers) with no sweat. In fact I can play R&R at ear bleeding levels without making the amps clip. The only thing which you won't experience is the in your chest visceral slam of the low end the SS provides.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
1,368 posts
 
B&W 805s will not give you the bass you want for rock music and you'll need a sub.

I think the combo you will really like is Mac and B&W 803D.
This system will play anything from classical to jazz to heavy metal. Go to Stereo Exchange in NYC to listen to this.
or go to Rabsons on rt4 in Paramus to listen to 803D with CJ equipment, which will also give you some idea about the B&W D series.

MLs are not bad speakers, they're just not for you(and not for me either). They are good for certain types of music and certain type of listener, that's all.
briang
22 posts
 
I am sorry to hear you are having such a trying experience, but welcome to the club.

I just purchased the Cremonas a couple of days ago and have been very happy with how they perform with rock. Last night I was feeling a bit mellow and had a 3 hour Beatle fest..........amazing. I am using the Cremonas with Van Alstine.

Good Luck with your search.
knollbrent's avatar
knollbrent
314 posts
 
musicaudio- if you like the mcintosh, then find the speakers to mate with them....i'm a big mac man and wouldn't have it any other way...my system will definately rock and roll...

try not to limit yourself to one dealer- i'm sure they're are plenty of people in your area that have good systems and would be happy for you to stop by....good luck, brent
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