This is a basic system that has been in the "making" for six years when I wanted to revisit old records and purchased the MMF5. Been very happy playing it through the Rega Mira integrated amplifier using Paradigm floor standing speakers. Very boomy and lacked detail.
Was in an Atlanta boutique listening to some great music and decided to get better set of speakers and decided on the Meadowlark Osprey's instead of the Kestrel II for deeper bass. Then came the amp. I wanted the VTL MB450's but couldn't rationalize the expense. The ST150 sounded so great compared to other brands I was listening to I decided to make that plunge.
but... my system really lacks the soundstage and low level detail that made me want to purchase the components in the first place. I know my temporary pre (Mira) is the primary weakness. I am not sure what direction I want to go but must be a tube product that matches well with VTL. My thoughts are ARC, Cary Audio, and VTL. I was not thrilled by the VTL 2.2 and haven't convinced myself to shell out the price of a 5.5.
Could use some help getting this thing right. I know I need to get power cords asap.
Great looking preamp! I have never had the chance to hear a Cary preamp, but have read many a decent posts on them. I hope it serves you well, and if it sounds half as good as it looks I would think you have a keeper.
If you are in the Atlanta area, we should try to get together sometime. I am eager to get my system unboxed and back into a room soon.
Keep us posted on how the preamp sounds as it breaks in for you.
Nice looking system! What are you looking for in a preamp? If you are considering tube preamps, I would recommend looking into Supratek and First Sound as both provide exceptional performance for their price points. Used either provide greater bang for the buck. Cabling will provide noticable improvements as well... perhaps look into some used Audience AU24 which in my opinion performs extremely well for the price point, until you come close to triple the retail price or higher... I would suggest cabling changes prior to power cord upgrades. Also, everything is cumulative, so you could also look for some used Synergistic Research AC Master Couplers (original version) for about $125 and have immense improvements with very minimal cash outlay (well... for this hobby...)
Overall you have a very capable amp, turtable, and speakers in my opinion. Many also love the Rega cd players, however I have never personally jumped onto that wagon. A few cable tweaks and you will be suprised how things can transform for you sonically.
