scon90

Responses from scon90

Good preamp with Merlin TSM speakers?
Years ago I had some TSM speakers driven by a sonic frontiers SFL2 preamp and pass aleph 1.2 mono amps. The sound from that set up was amazing. I may not recall the exact name of the preamp but it was the 2 chassis unit. 
Upgrading from Thiel CS3.6 to Avalon
I went from Thiel 3.6 to Avalon Radian HC about 15 years ago. Still have the Avalons if that answers your question. 
Pass amps
I am running a pair of Merlin TSM- MM speakers with Pass Aleph 1.2 amps and am very impressed with the sound. I originally was using a Naim integrated to drive them and thought the sound was pretty good but when I moved them to the main room the s... 
OK Come Clean, whats in your closet ?
body parts 
Tubes with Thiel CS-3.6's? has anyone had success?
I had Thiel 3.6 speakers that worked really well with an Audio Research VT-100. you may want to consider the ARC integrated although more than 50 watts really would be best. 
Starting Over
I have a friend that was looking for the same thing on a $5000 budget. He got a Sony SCD777es, Rogue Tempest magnum tube integrated, and a pair of Pro-Ac Response 1.5 speakers. He is very happy with it and I thought it sounded great also. 
Class A amplifier choice, need suggestions
For solid state amps you really can't go wrong with the Pass Aleph series. I have Aleph 1.2 monoblocks and think they are fantastic. I have a friend with Pro-Ac speakers and he drives them with tubes and they sound great even though the amp is cla... 
How do YOU justify this hobby?
Sometimes I just run out of other things to do. 
What is the next Phono Pre-Amp for me?
I recently upgraded from a PH-3se to an Aesthetix Io. There was a huge improvement with the Io and that was with a Benz Glider. I am waiting for my Helikon SL to arrive- can't wait to hear that cartridge! 
Phonomena vs. AcousTech PH-1 phono pre amp?
I had an AcousTech for about a year before going with tubes. I thought it was an excellent phono stage. I have not heard the Phonomena. 
Does your system sound better in the winter?
Yes, I have noticed better sound quality in the colder months. Here in Houston I still listen frequently in the summer, but with my heat generating all tube system I can cool the room simply by opening the windows. 
Pass x250, Talon Khoruses , what now ?
For a little over your budget the Sonic Frontiers SFL-2 is an excellent pre-amp and should work well with the Pass amp. 
Cardas Golden Referance XLR/IC's w/SS equipment
I am using Golden Reference speaker cables between Pass Aleph monoblocks and Sound Lab electrostats. They work very well in this set up. 
Any one else have this complaint?
I have Avalon speakers(Radian HC) and it takes me all of 7 minutes to change cables and return them to the original positions. I can't imagine how it can take you an hour and no I don't have a pit crew helping me. 
Wife stepping on speaker wire
Have you thought about carrying her when she is in that room?