Quick lend of valve amp...?

[Claus]

Thanks Simon! Only saw this now. That was my first dream amp, when reading about it in a HiFi mag years ago!

I am also looking at a pair of KT88 mono blocks from Danish builder audio-classic.
They are manual bias and output 28 watts in triode mode... I can get them second hand, shipped over for about a grand with an extra set of PSvane KT88 /T4 valves. I am not sure the 28watts will be enough... Hmm....

I have been listening and comparing with Pearse's CJ MV-60 amp over the last week. I find the difference very subtle actually. Voices are slightly rounder but general grip and speed is slightly worse in comparison with my Nu-Vista amp. Switching to my Nu-Vista amp the sound is marginally thinner but with a much tighter grip in the bass. Sound stage remains big and wide with both amps, perhaps a little deeper with the CJ. There is plenty of power on tap though! I never need to go over 10 o'clock on the dial which is the same as with the 275Watt power section.

If nothing else I am perhaps realising how good my current actually amp is.... :)

[cybot]

Thanks Simon! Only saw this now. That was my first dream amp, when reading about it in a HiFi mag years ago!

I am also looking at a pair of KT88 mono blocks from Danish builder audio-classic.
They are manual bias and output 28 watts in triode mode... I can get them second hand, shipped over for about a grand with an extra set of PSvane KT88 /T4 valves. I am not sure the 28watts will be enough... Hmm....

I have been listening and comparing with Pearse's CJ MV-60 amp over the last week. I find the difference very subtle actually. Voices are slightly rounder but general grip and speed is slightly worse in comparison with my Nu-Vista amp. Switching to my Nu-Vista amp the sound is marginally thinner but with a much tighter grip in the bass. Sound stage remains big and wide with both amps, perhaps a little deeper with the CJ. There is plenty of power on tap though! I never need to go over 10 o'clock on the dial which is the same as with the 275Watt power section.

If nothing else I am perhaps realising how good my current actually amp is.... :)

The differences you describe are classic valve vs transistors comparisons. Remind us about the Nu-Vista amp. Does it use unique valve-like components? I also used to have Musical Fidelity amps - A100 and A1000. I still have the A1000 and use it occasionally. Strange that the company have gone quiet this long while. I remember the days when they would have a new item out nearly every week! Completely OTT :) In finishing, I have to say I liked the MF 'sound'....

[Claus]

The Nu-Vista has miniature valves in the preamp only. It was described as rather warm sounding (for solid state) when it came out. And yes the company, after the whole Nu-Vista, Tri-Vista route, seemed to do a u-turn and went back to class A in their top line amp.... An amp I have been keeping an eye on, but it rarely comes up second hand...

And yes indeed I think the difference was just that! Very educational.

On that note I can report that I did a massive test with pyramid foam I have sitting around from my now defunct home studio. I put foam up on all first reflections (except ceiling) and the change was quite a revelation! Great improvement in sound stage and the hardness I have struggled with in the upper mids seemed much better controlled. I am looking into getting a pro measurement and treatment done but can't really seem to find anyone doing it online...

[tony]

Yes Claus I was surprised too how some bits of sponge seemed to do a lot. I think if you look through the archives willsandbills(willie) got somebody down from Nord Ireland. Seem to remember it cost something like €500+. It might have been to set up a surround sound system can't remember.

A lot of people have advised stuff like this on the forum normally heavy curtains or furnishings but maybe the dedicated foam is the right route. It is expensive if buying new and messy to make if using rockwool. When I have a bit more time I will certainly try a few home made yokes.

[mick]

'There is plenty of power on tap though! I never need to go over 10 o'clock on the dial '
Clause,
Just to let you know the dial on my amp goes up to 11.

[Claus]

Ok stuff has happened!
I saw Marcus' Cary 500MB mono blocks up for sale and jumped on them immediately. He was very kind to let me demo at home for the past week. They are a much better match with my Focals with amazing bass and valve-like soundstage and of course endless juice on tap. They sound great with my M3 Nu-Vista as a preamp, but I couldn't resist going balanced, so I bought an Ayre K-5xe from Germany that I had delivered yesterday. This was a bit of a chance and I am not sure yet whether it is a keeper.

Just thought I would update you all as to what has happened in my search for audio bliss…

PS: I am still very open to suggestions regarding balanced preamps with or without valves….

[Claus]

Nearly forgot: A huge thanks to Marcus who has been a real gentleman and another example of why this forum is so great!

[Diapason]

That's a great result, Claus. Always wanted to know what that Ayre was like. Preamps are hard to buy, I think. Shame my graaf is gone or you could have had a go, that was balanced too. Aesthetix is another option perhaps.

[Claus]

Ahh Simon! Did you see Audio Analogue are re-issuing the GM50B II? Would be an interesting option…

Thanks for the tip. I forgot about those Aesthetix amps.

The Ayre is sounding great after having been on for a good 24 hours. So it might be a keeper! :)

[Diapason]

Excellent!