CARY CAD120s clipping?

Amp clipping is dependent on the speaker load and the current requirements; therefore, there is no simple answer. An inefficient low impedance speaker will cause your amp to clip easier when compared to a high efficient high impedance speaker for the same amount spl. The nice thing about tube amps is that they “soft clip” or they simple run out of power and dynamics become compressed and the soundstage collapse etc.

The front meters are used to set tube bias. You will notice that the meters will move as you increase the volume. This is normal as bias current increases with volume increases. The front meters do not indicate clipping.

A lot of users report great results matching the SLP-98 with the 120S.

I agree with Brf, the meters show bias adjustments, not clipping. Also different speakers will dictate different levels for clipping depending on their efficiences. The volume knob cannot designate clipping either, since different preamps will have different amounts of gain.

I have the SLP-98P, and I'm using it with a solid state amp. I've looked at the CAD-120S, and it is still under consideration for me. I can't say that I am definitely committed to buying one though.

Jake I have the exact combo slp 98p and cad 120's the first 35 watts are class A and the bias should be set at 140 to 150 on the meters. In ultralinear you can peg the needles as per the manual. This combo is a match made in heaven. Make sure all your tubes are good. You won't have to upgrade to the mark II with the slp98p either because the pre has plenty of gain in it. Best of luck.

If any one has the SLP98P and no tube amp the CAD120's will make you happy you bought it. Mono's may be better but maybe not always.

01-30-14: Polk432
If any one has the SLP98P and no tube amp the CAD120's will make you happy you bought it. Mono's may be better but maybe not always.

Thanks, that may help steer me towards the 120S.
Have you tried any other tube amps with your 98P? Which ones?
Did you try any SET amps?

Cheers,
John