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What's the greatest bargain in SET these days?

Hi, Gang,
I response to my recent review of the Reference 3A De Capo BE speaker, someone wrote that if you really want to hear them sing, you should try them with a SET amp, or words to that effect.
That got me thinking. The De Capo's are 92 db efficient, which (correct me if I'm wrong) seems kind of borderline for low-power SET amps.
In any event, right now I'm running mine with a pair of Manley Mahi mono-blocks. They are switchable from triode (20 watts) to "ultra linear" (40 watts). I run them in triode all the time, and in my room, the volume knob almost never goes past 9 o'clock; more would just be too loud.
All that said, what do you guys think of running the De Capo's with a SET amp? And if I did, what's the best bargain in SET's these days?
Thanks!
rebbi
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
6,996 posts
 
Hello Bill,
Good post and interesting points regarding value. From time to time I've wondered in admiration how Israel is able to offer such excellent sounding components for such reasonable cost. I have owned a Symphonic Line amplifier and a custom 100 watt push pull 6550/KT 88 amplifier. Both were very good, the Frankenstein is a better sounding and much more rewarding amplifier without question. Having lived with all three of these amps, the Frankenstein is in a different league in terms of natural character, emotional involvement and realism. Bill I completely relate to your personal amplifier journey and outcome based on your Frankenstein experience.
Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
6,996 posts
 
Bill,
For additional perspective read Hmiguel's system page(Tripoint Audio owner and builder) for comments regarding his new( 2 days ago) CLS. Keep in mind he is using his ultra level Tripoint products and has the esteemed Robert Koda preamp in his fabulous system. We aren't alone in our opinions.
Charles,
saki70
853 posts
 
Mikirob ;
I must've missed it , what preamp are you using with the Dynamo .

Thanks
mikirob
950 posts
 
None. The Dynamo does not need a preamp. I'm only using a CD transport and a MiniMax DAC. You can use it with a preamp if you want too. See Tim Smith's 6 Moons review, he did use a preamp during a small portion of his time with the Dynamo. It's really not necessary unless you need additional inputs. The Dynamo only has one.
rebbi OP
1,319 posts
 
That Coincident Dynamo is looking more and more interesting to me!

How does it sound with the tubes that ship with it?
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