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High End Tube Gear Transition to High End SS

I have some classic and venerable high-end MFA tube electronics, a completely upgraded Luminescence Pre and a level one upgraded pair of M-120 Mono Amps. I have used and loved these electronics for over 20 years -they simply perform wonderfully.

However, (you knew that was coming) I am considering downsizing and simplifying my audio system by possibly going to say a Hegel 200 integrated amp. I know full well how good my MFA gear is. I've read a rave review or two of the Hegel as well as an Audio Research integrated. I would imagine there are other SS integrateds out there which are terrific. I have not kept current for many years (no pun) so I don't really know who makes what.

So: are there any folks in Audiogon land who have switched from great tube gear to great SS? If so, would you be kind enough to share your experiences?
Thanks very much.
PS
ps
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I think you need to figure out what speakers you'll be using. Without that, its hard to make recommendations.
russ69's avatar
russ69
179 posts
 
Just my opinion but downsizing is a mistake. There I said it. Clean up your set-up, maybe buy a new table or rack but you wont like the results of moving down from the gear you have.
noromance's avatar
noromance
1,780 posts
 
Your wife loves the sound? And you want to mess that up? (takes sip of single malt).
stevecham
3,298 posts
 
I wouldn't change a thing based on the reasons you provide. Change for change' sake alone is likely to be disappointing.
ps OP
411 posts
 
Thank you all for your thoughtful responses. The more I think about "my situation" the less inclined I am to change electronics. The MFA gear has been extremely reliable and has required little more than basic maintenance during the many years we've enjoyed it. The upgrades I had Scott Frankland perform were beyond what was "necessary" but something I elected to do. Even it their original form, they sounded great.

Russ69 suggested I clean up my set-up, which I have been doing. A fine idea! The TT is a Rega P5 and does not disappoint. CDP is a Shanling CD-T 100se, a very nice unit. IC's and speaker cable are by Grover Huffmann. Great wires at a great price. They just get out of the way and let the music speak.

So, that leaves the speakers. As I mentioned, I expect to be auditioning a pair of Larsen 6's soon. The reason I'm interested in those is that they are smaller than the Chapmans and are designed to be placed against the wall. Hence, they will be much less intrusive, and, if I like the sound, the days of toe-in are over. No more searching for the "ultimate sweet spot." :)

Our new living room/audio configuration dictates I sit fairly close to the Chapmans and it's not an ideal situation. I'm too aware that the music is coming out of boxes. This is NOT the Chapmans' fault, but it's how I have to arrange the room. A dedicated listening room is not an option. I will, however be installing a couple of dedicated electrical lines now that my wife and I have agreed on the room arrangement.

You guys are really helping me to sort things out!
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