Where should I go next? Where are my weak links?

Dear me, where to start? I did a little reading on impedance matching between amplifiers and speakers, so I think I have a better understanding of the mechanics involved at this point than before. I believe Rauliruegas is sincere and forthright in his criticism of my amplifier mismatch. But, I also believe that he is being overly dogmatic about the value of accuracy as it pertains to systems that are, ultimately, nothing but generators of illusion. I am not dismissing accuracy. I just think that there are other factors--aside from a flat impedance curve for speakers or a low output impedance in an amplifier--that bear upon the production of a convincing illusion. My speaker/amp combination may shelve down the treble and roll off part of the lower midrange, but I am willing to accept those 'flaws' as a fair compromise when balanced against other sonic virtues such as deeper soundstages, tonal beauty, warmth, lively dynamics, etc. Rauliruegas' insistence on low output impedances for amplifiers puts every low powered SET amplifier out of the race as regards quality sound reproduction. I do not think that is anywhere near 'right.' My own amplifier/speaker mismatch provides a reproduction of musical events with a palpable presence that, I believe, would be hard to match by most other quantifiably accurate systems. Rauliruegas may claim that I am merely flattering my ears with misguidedly pleasant colorations, he may be right. I don't deny that I want my system to please me. I thought that was the point.

With all due respect and wholehearted regards,

Ivan

Charles1dad,

Thanks for the offer to lend me the tubes, but I'm afraid that my amps require 4 300b rather than the two in your Franks. I just ordered a set of the Psavanes and --as per Mechans recomendation-- I am switching my 6SN7 drivers also. My Manleys can run single ended or push pull so they bear 4 300b tubes. I think I will switch my Manleys for a pair of Franks someday. The Franks are reputedly better, not to mention how much cheaper they are to tube roll. I would love to hear your system someday. I am very curious to hear how your Coincident + Franks differ from my Manley + Zu. I am also very curious about your digital front end. I have a Peachtree iDecco which sounds very good to me, but I am sure that your digital seriously outclasses mine. Also, why no vinyl? Your system seems to be begging for some...

Warm regards,

Ivan

More:

Roscoeii, I will be attending AK Fest. I went a few years back, it was loads of fun. Perhaps we can meet there? Stop tempting me with the Well Tempered Amadeus. It was bad enough to hear from Shakey that he loves it with my same cartridge... I'm starting to think about a turntable change prior to the phonostage change. I was not considering a turntable change at all, previously that is...

Learsfool, I don't think you know good this subwoofer is. It is literally invisible. It has a volume control, a phase switch and a crossover frequency dial. I have the volume at the max. It does not matter. The true volume control is the crossover dial. It blends in so seamlessly with the speakers that I often forget that it is not even running. I often realize, after a few records, when I put on something that calls for deep bass, that I've forgotten to switch the damned thing on.

Cheers & thanks,

Ivan

Hi Ivan,
I appreciate your respectful/tolerant response to Raul.I can`t count the number of times I or other tube amp owners(especially SET) have been lectured to(often condescendingly) about are 'misguided' preference for'coloration and distorted sound.SET amplifiers in 'my' experience simply comes closer to what I hear live then any other amplifier type. I realize everyone`s experience/conclusions are`nt the same and that`s perfectly fine. I`d never feel the urge to wag a finger at their SS amps, but that`s how it goes I guess.

Ivan you`re welcome to my home any time or perhaps I could bring my amps to you to hear in your system(you never no how components will mate).

I was a record spinner for many years(Well Tempered Classic TT,loved it!).i sold it to a friend and later got a used Linn LP-12(not as good IMO). My current fornt end with the Yamamoto-YDA DAC out pre forms the Linn TT, the PWT is a fabulous transport. JAzz redbook CDs sound so good with this combo,the CDs are cheap and plentiful(love Amazon). At this point I`ve no motivation to return to records.

Syntax, why is the Lamm better than the Steelhead?

Believe me, deep in your heart, you don't want to know it really.... :-)