I own an early pair of the GTA2s and love them. Magneplanar and ML fans should try to audition these and find out how much dynamic excitement they are missing. He has made some dramatic improvements to the GTA2s, and the pair that bonzo75 heard is the current design, transparent, punchy, focused imaging, expansive soundstage, great realism on percussion/drum kit, it's a shame more people haven't had a chance to hear them, especially the latest version. The GTA2s are emotionally involving and often I listen to an entire CD when I started to listen to a single cut, my feet move, and I smile when a favorite song plays. If you can drive to Northern NJ, please get a chance to hear them at Greg's home, they sound terrific!
I think Bernings won't work on a panel, but they sell off easily in the used market. You can buy any 100w amp, tube or SS, as your preference
I am seriously considering the GTA2(.5) speakers. Even to the point of buying unheard. I was a panel speaker guy for almost 30 years and have a lot of experience with Maggies, ML, Acoustat, Apogee, and the like. My one reservation is that of amplification. What are you using to drive the panels? I have 30 watt Berning amp and am concerned I'll need more power.
John
Based on what people have told me about Berning amps, and what i am told about these panels...perhaps give Vitus a try? I know Kog (your Stillpoints & Entreq distributor here) also distributes Vitus...perhaps speak with them for further advice? I know people who have owned both Gryphon and Vitus Masterpiece level, so have some idea of what Vitus is like...and imagine they are every bit the world class amps that is their reputation.
Agreed. I have used a smaller SIA-025, that is very nice in Class A mode. It was driving Focal Scala Utopias. Vitus distributes Stillpoints so we already have a relationship with Hans-Ole. Not sure what to take away from your comment on Berning amps...
John
Agreed. I have used a smaller SIA-025, that is very nice in Class A mode. It was driving Focal Scala Utopias. Vitus distributes Stillpoints so we already have a relationship with Hans-Ole. Not sure what to take away from your comment on Berning amps...
John
not sure what your budget might be, but last fall I had the pleasure of enjoying a weekend with the Berning 211/845 ZOTL Monoblocks which are 60 watts class A and more in push pull. it's a great amplifier.
very holographic, beautiful tone, linear at the frequency extremes, and dynamic. I used to own 75 watt Tenor OTL's so I know my OTL's.
can it do those speakers justice? don't know.
Hi John. I have had my Vitus SIA 025 for a year or so and it is the best amp I have ever owned.
I have heard a range of other amps at Munich and none persuaded me that they sounded better overall.
Initially I was unsure whether the 25 watt Class A output (100 watts A/B) was enough. Fraser assured me there would be no problem and he was right and I know my experience has been mirrored by that of other owners. My Carmels' sensistivity is 85 so not the most efficient but in class A I still have power to spare.
Have a word with Fraser.
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