Probably get to compare mono 2102s to my current set up sometime in June. As I said before, I'll also listen to the 501s, but I'm a dyed in the wool tube guy so I think I know which I will prefer. As for used Indra which is only made as an IC (and which I bought used on Agon), the biggest impact will be between cd source and pre. With Meridian's phenomenal transparency, you'll really hear a difference, esp in liquidity and soundstage and the upper treble. I must say that the difference was significant when I had the Mac 2200 pre but even more so when I replaced the 2200 with the C1000. The more transparent the system, the more significant the impact of the Indra. Incidentally, I'm surprised you didn't like the Hydra. Did you get a good pc (esp Shunyata) to plug it into an outlet? That is fairly critical to success
imho. I'll let you know what my conclusions are on the amps. Thanks for the advice and happy listening.

gpgr4blu April 21, 2007 04:40

Hey Shane--I also use Mc 2102 (about to test listen to them as monos vs the Mc 501s-I suspect I'll reach same conclusion as you did) Mc C1000 with tube module only, VPI Superscoutmaster with Dynavector XV-1S and Watt Puppy 7s. Shunyata Hydra with Anaconda from outlet to Hydra. Mostly Stealth cabling incl Indra fom BelCanto PL-1A to pre. Nordost for phono to go with Nordost wiring in tonearm.
YOU HAVE GOT TO GET THE C1000. What a pre--much better and more transparent than the 2200 (which was pretty good to begin with) and, believe it or not quieter. Music comes out of a pitch black background. PLUS, as you are a vinyl guy, quite simply the best phono section I've ever heard. The second biggest impact is the Indra--liquidity, extension without coursness or grain. I know it's big bucks, but u are in deep. Might as well go all the way.
I really like your system incl speakers with which I am quite familiar. You have what I think will be my next 2 upgrades HRX and monos. Great set up. Even the Nike Frees are a good call.

gpgr4blu April 08, 2007 00:10