I am using a Wadia 850 w/ GNSC Reference mods to directly feed 2 Electrocompaniet AW220s as monoblocks, which drive my Gallo Reference 3 speakers. It does very very well when compared to a 80K reference system. I have found that every improvement I make to my system makes the Gallo Reference 3 speakers sound just that much better. I have installed a pair of Bright Star IsoRock GR3 speaker stands which raised the speakers 8" and improved the clarity and bottom end. I installed IsoClean fuses into both Electrocompaniet AW220s and the Wadia 850. These made a big difference, believe it or not. I am using Shunyata Hydra 6 and a Shunyata Python Vx power cord and Taipans to the EC amps. Upgrading the power cords made a big palpable difference. I have had the Gallo Subwoofer Amp on order for about 5 months. I suggest you read the review on the Electrocompaniet AW220 in Stereo Times, which you can find via the Blue Book listing for the Electrocompaniet AW220 here on AudiogoN. On the other hand, the thirty day trial of the NuForce amps sounds like a good place to start. Ric Schultz knows his Gallo Ref 3 speakers inside and out.
SS Amp Recommendations for Gallo Reference 3 ???
I am making a list of solid state amps for audition with my Gallo Reference 3's.
What solid state amps and integrateds work well with the Gallo Reference 3's? I read in Bound for Sound that the Edge G6 works well. Does anyone have experience with this combination? What other amps are working well for those that currently own Reference 3's and use solid state amps? Does anyone have experience with Rowland, Levinson, or Mac?
I use a Wadia 850 for the source. I haven't decided if it stays or goes. If it goes, I will likely look for an integrated since I don't currently use a preamp. Also, I will be using the system for two-channel stereo only, and would spend up to around $4,500 new or used.
The reason that I am looking is that I hope to find something to help me make the transition out of tubes. I spend too much time fussing over them, and would like to find something to leave on all the time, that requires no maintenance, and allows me to spend more time enjoying music and less time tweaking. Of course, if I'm not happy with the sound, I'll ultimately have to stay with tubes.
Thanks in advance,
Jeff