Leben CS 600 vs Audio Note Meishu

There is a big difference in sound/$$$ from the AN Meishu to the AN CS amp.

Here's the takeaway from my previous post...

If possible, you need to hear the amps under consideration in your system to make a good decision.

Having owned the Leben CS600, I can verify that it's a fine product with exceptional build quality that should drive the Living voice IBX R2 speakers without any problem. Mine was dead quiet. In fact, it was the quietest tube amplifier (integrated or otherwise) that I have ever had in my system. However, I cannot offer an opinion as to how the combination will sound.

I use to own the Leben CS600 which had more than enough power for my Living Voice OBX-RW speakers. I agree the CS600 is very well made with no operational issues and the sound quality is excellent - well extended, slightly warm and rounded but not classic sloppy vintage tube sound.

As you may know you can tailor the CS600 sound by easily substituting different output tubes.

However the CS600/Living Voice combo wasn't totally satisfying for my taste. Although the CS600 is dynamic and full bodied, I preferred the more incisive and upbeat sound of the Patek gainclone (40w) and the Leben CS300 (12w). These amps complemented the neutural tonal balance and excellent pace, rhythm and timing nature of the LV speakers.

If possible you should audition the CS600 and CS300 with your IBX-R2.

Thank you really appreciate your answers.

If you are going to listen/test/demo Audio Note and Leben, you should probably add Shindo to your list.

I have an AN system, but a friend of mine recently put together a Shindo system (using DeVORE Gobbon 8 speakers) and he is quite happy with the sound.