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Leben integrated amps and Merlin VSM

Has anyone tried either the Leben CS-300 or CS-600 integrated amps (or even the CS-660P amp) with the Merlin VSMs?

How do they compare with the Ars-Sonum Filarmonia integrated amp or the Berning ZH-270 (that is the ZH-270 connected to a preamp; not standalone). I have both the Ars and the Berning and before I sent my Merlins to Bobby for an upgrade, I found myself still partial to the Berning/Joule combination. I'm anxious to get my Merlins back so I can spend more time listening to the Filarmonia. Nevertheless I would be curious what others thought of the Leben integrated amps.

Thanks!
dpe
dpe
bigamp
216 posts
 
I recommend listening to a Leben before you buy -- I would guess that they will sound quite different. I used to own a Leben CS-300x and have had OTL amps in my system at the same time. The Leben sound is quite a bit different than the OTL sound (I know arguments that the ZH is not a true OTL amp). The Leben is warm and I believe a little wooly, while OTLs generally have a clean and open sound.
dob
577 posts
 
Bobby from Merlin is always show his speakers with Joule-Electra amplifier (usually VZN-100 or 160) and last two seasons with LA-300ME line stage.... FWIW, that is match made in heaven

All The Best
Rafael
tvad
9,467 posts
 
01-12-10: Dob
Bobby from Merlin is always show his speakers with Joule-Electra amplifier...FWIW, that is match made in heaven.
I agree. The Merlin room always sounds exceptional, and if one wants the sound produced in the room from those speakers, then IMO one is best served by buying into the Merlin/Joule/Cardas system concept. Bobby has the sound so refined, why mess with the formula?
dpe OP
59 posts
 
Well partly because the VZN-100 and 160 are monoblock which don't always fit in everyone's decor. I love the VZN-100s, but I think my wife would leave me. They, as well as the VZN-80, also generate a lot of heat. That's probably great in Maine, but not so good in California.

Also Bobby's other formula is the Merlin/Ars-Sonum Filarmonia/Cardas...would you mess with this formula?
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Also Bobby's other formula is the Merlin/Ars-Sonum Filarmonia/Cardas...would you mess with this formula?
Dpe (Answers)
No, I wouldn't, and after I posted my previous comment I wished that I had remembered to include the Ars Sonum option.
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