I am on the verge of purchasing an MSB Dac: probably the Reference and possibly the Select II. I intend to feed the MSB directly to the amp(s), but I will experiment with also using a PreAmp (I currently have a VAC Master and will consider other PreAmps). I am settled with having Rockport Cygnus speakers, gently supplemented by a pair of REL No. 25s and have had good experience with Shunyata (signal cables as well as power cords to devices and power conditioners) and Audioquest (for power cords from the wall to the power conditioner and to the Amp(s). The current room size is 18' wide x 16' deep x 10' high (2,880 cubic feet). Eventually this gear will end up in a slightly larger room. I listen to all types of music via but prefer classic Rock & R&B at various volume levels. I access music via streaming.
I am seeking suggestions for amplifier(s) to mate with an MSB (Ref or Select II). I have always used monoblocks but, based upon the size of the investment as well as the efficiency rating and ohm load of the Cygnus, I am confronted with the decision between purchasing monoblock amps or a stereo amp. I have a separate tube system with a modest vinyl front-end, so for the MSB rig I would prefer SS amp(s). I am not interested in finding a hyper-detailed, transparent sound. I hope to achieve a more "natural/organic" sound that replicates the real thing (a live show or the master recording). Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, I have not had the opportunity to travel to hear different amps. So, I would greatly appreciate hearing about your own experience with:
(1) What is the real distinction between the REF and the SELECT II - from the point of view of a buyer?
(2) Matching and MBS (Ref or Select II) with an end-game amp in the $50k-$70k range
(3) Will a Pre-Amp enhance the sound or just get in the way?
The following amps that are on my short-list...but I am interested in any other amps that have withstood initial purchase enthusiasm and have endured the test of time:
Stereo Amps
MSB S500 (I presume that the S500 will be a perfect match with MSB Dacs - I am sure that it will be uber-precise but will the S500 sound "organic" enough?)
BOULDER 2160
GRYPHON MEPHISTO
Monoblock Amps
PASS LABS (X600.8 or XS 150)
D'AGOSTINO M400
I am seeking suggestions for amplifier(s) to mate with an MSB (Ref or Select II). I have always used monoblocks but, based upon the size of the investment as well as the efficiency rating and ohm load of the Cygnus, I am confronted with the decision between purchasing monoblock amps or a stereo amp. I have a separate tube system with a modest vinyl front-end, so for the MSB rig I would prefer SS amp(s). I am not interested in finding a hyper-detailed, transparent sound. I hope to achieve a more "natural/organic" sound that replicates the real thing (a live show or the master recording). Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, I have not had the opportunity to travel to hear different amps. So, I would greatly appreciate hearing about your own experience with:
(1) What is the real distinction between the REF and the SELECT II - from the point of view of a buyer?
(2) Matching and MBS (Ref or Select II) with an end-game amp in the $50k-$70k range
(3) Will a Pre-Amp enhance the sound or just get in the way?
The following amps that are on my short-list...but I am interested in any other amps that have withstood initial purchase enthusiasm and have endured the test of time:
Stereo Amps
MSB S500 (I presume that the S500 will be a perfect match with MSB Dacs - I am sure that it will be uber-precise but will the S500 sound "organic" enough?)
BOULDER 2160
GRYPHON MEPHISTO
Monoblock Amps
PASS LABS (X600.8 or XS 150)
D'AGOSTINO M400