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Amp upgrade for 2 Ce Sig II

Guys,

I'm in the USAF stationed in England and don't have the opportunity to listen to these amps. My system currently consist Rogue Cronus Tube integrated amp 55 Watts, Rega Aollo and MIT Shotgun S3 bi-wire and interconnects. There are two amps that people rave about, Belles 150A and Mccormack DNA125. The choice will have to complement a tube
pre-amp. I'll be more than happy to hear any other recommendations as well. The Belles is at an excellent price on this board, so if it the one I'll have to act quick.

Thanks,
Ron
wig
wig's avatar
wig OP
831 posts
 

How about the Manley Schrimp pre-amp with the Belles 150A?
elevick
2,439 posts
 
Keep your wattage to 100 minimum.
Music Fidelity would be nice.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Seems to me that Belles and McCormack are mighty fine choices at your price points. Vandersteen needs some watts and current for its bass, SS is a good way to do it at your price point and the two you mention would be at the top of my list as well.
wig's avatar
wig OP
831 posts
 
Thanks for the advice I know that these Vandies can do better, just need a little more power!

tvad
9,467 posts
 
I'd go with the McCormack, and I'll bluntly state why.

I owned two Belles 150A Reference amps, which both sounded excellent. The problem was that they both had buzzing transformers, and after paying Dave $300 to check them out, they still buzzed. He said it was a problem with my AC, but I have not had any other amps or gear that has buzzed like the Belles. There are other reports on the internet about this issue.

There have also recently been reports of spotty service from Belles (unresponsive to calls and emails) whereas Steve McCormack is one of the best in the business in this regard.

Considering you're overseas, I'd suggest limiting your risk and going with the McCormack.
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