kbs1249

Responses from kbs1249

How do you determine how much to spend on speakers
Budget more on the front end and then find the best speaker, instead of the opposite way around. Speakers rely on what is fed to them. But best suggestion of all, you should listen to see what you like. 
Totem Beaks
I use the beaks and found the above comments similar to my experience. It is a subtle difference, yet worth the investment. 
Best Preamp under $5k??
Bezeemya; the LS25 does have a detachable power cord. Do you have a different preamp? 
Best Preamp under $5k??
My vote is for either an arc ls25 or bat vk30se. 
looking for an amp ???
I also agree with Gmkowal. The BAT is a fine amp (currently own). Dynamics and "voice" are good, and if you are worried about power, you could run monoblocks. The best determining factor is your ears. Good luck and let us know the decision. 
Speaker suggestions for Plinius, Muse...
The ProAc Response 1.5 for $3K. Also, the ProAc has a single 6.5" woofer, compared to his current dual woofer setup. As for the bass, it is clean and musical sounding. 
Tubes? OH YES!!! But where? Hmmm....
You might need to give a little more information as to your purchase. I would prefer using a tube preamp and s.s. amp, but you might also want to try the newer tube ARC equipment; LS 8mkII,16,25 and VT100mkII. You will be surprised at what you hea... 
Levinson vs Threshold vs Plinius vs Bry
I am using my Proac 1.5's with a Bryston 4b with good results. You might want to add the VT100 mkII to your list as I heard them paired to 2.5's; they sounded great. 
mono or stereo? (classe or ?)
I have found, in general and at that price level, that if you use a 200w stereo amp, it will sound more effortless than two 100w bridged stereo amps. I bridged two bryston 3b's compared to one 4b and found the above to be true. It all depends on t... 
mono or stereo? (classe or ?)
If you enjoy your classe, then more power to you. How much is double, $3000? I agree that the kav250 would be a good choice, but for a little bit more, you could look for a used fpb200 or vt100mkII. I was in your exact situation before; you can em... 
Best system for B&W Nautilus 802 ?
The FPB200c sounds sweet with N805. It is matched with an ARC LS25. Let your ears decide. Good luck. 
Best Amp for under $2000.
In my experience, B&W's require power. For your budget, you could buy 2 used Bryston 4b's and bi-amp the speakers or look for a used Krell KSA 150. Good luck. 
Speaker for Bryston 4B-ST and Wadia 830
I agree that the N805 would sound great. You could possibly get the N804 and not worry about a "sub" later. Another option is to hear the Proac Tablette 2000 signature. Good luck. 
B&W upgrade
In my experience, I feel that B&W's sound better when run with a little more than adequate power. My 804 matrix are run by a Bryston 4b, although a 7b wouldn't hurt. As for the Nautilus series, I have heard the 805's run by a FPB200 and they s...