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845 SET? deHavilland / Art Audio/et..al.

Any impressions on the deHavilland Aries and Art Audio Carissa? How do they compare? Comparable 845 based amps that should be considered? How do they compare with those mentioned? And finally, and thoughts on the difference in sound between the dH Aries monoblocks and the stereo IOS? My speakers are Merlin VSM-MXes, should that enter into the equation. Thanks.
pubul57
jalanc42069's avatar
jalanc42069
131 posts
 
Hi Pubul57, yes the Carissa Signature is the best 845 i've heard, but i haven't heard too many different 845s. I've heard the Bel Canto i40,and it was very good, but it's been a long time since hearing it, same with the deHavillands. If you are buying new, you should be able to demo one in your system, that would be best.
Regards, Alan
david12
1,398 posts
 
I would recommend Unison Research, their 845 monoblocks were excellent, when I heard them. I believe one of their large integrated amps are 845's. The Viva line is really special too, I have been using the Solista, a SET 845 integrated with 22 Watts, for some years. Truly excellent build quality, dynamics, neutrality. There larger monoblocks, the Auroras are 845 too i believe
pubul57 OP
3,712 posts
 
So some of the contenders are: Art Audio, deHavilland, Unison Research and Viva. Well, I'm going to do a bit more research. Thanks for the input.
pubul57 OP
3,712 posts
 
Just for the record, I understand that Mastersound is also a contender worth considering.
goldeneraguy
439 posts
 
Pubul57,I am a very happy owner of the deHavilland Aries 845G
Its the best amp i have owned in my quest for nirvana.With the Aries G you also get Kara as an extra bonus.
The Viva Solista is very,very close IMHO.but this would take your Joule-Electra 150 mk11 out of your system.
Are you unhappy with your CAT amps or just want that SET sound
Best of luck with any decision you make
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