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  1. paolo

    MC275 vs cj Classic 62SE?

    Latest MC275 vs cj Classic 62SE? Has anyone had the opportunity to compare these two amps? If so I'd value your thoughts. One of my systems is the latest version of a MAC C22 into a cj Classic 62 SE and I'm wondering what, if anything, positive, I might gain if I were to swap the cj for the...
  2. paolo

    Sonus Faber Guarneri Series Or Similar Speakers vs Audio Note In Small Room???

    Has anyone switched from either SF or similar speakers which are placed out into the room, to Audio Note speakers placed in corners or vice versa? If so, can. you kindly share your reasons and results? I ask because my dedicated listening room is 11' w X 13' L and while I'm quite pleased with...
  3. paolo

    EH 6922 Gold Pin: An Appreciation

    I recently replaced the very tired Sylvania 6922 in my CAV 45 S2 control amp, with one of Upscale "Kevin's Stash" EH gold pin tubes. After about 48 hours the little CAV is singing a much sweeter and detailed tune. The sound stage in my 11' wide listening room is wider, deeper, and much more...
  4. paolo

    I Am Seeking a Bit More of the CJ GOLDEN GLOW. Please Share Your Thoughts On What Newer CJ Separates to Consider

    Greetings all, and may 2023 be a fine year full of good health and sweet music. I'm happily using a CJ CAV 45 S-2 paired with Guarneri Homage. I have absolutely no complaints about this latest CJ control amp. I enjoy it so much that I got to thinking about going to CJ tube separates, those...
  5. paolo

    Brand-New 550 AXii in the house and my first Luxman component. :)

    After decades of dealing with, and mostly enjoying tube separates, despite costly maintenance and upgrades, and later tube integrateds, I decided to try getting off the tube roller coaster. Based on a review by, and an email exchange with, the estimable Jeff Dorgay of Tone, I decided to...
  6. paolo

    Gestalt: A Great High-End Audio Dealer...

    ...since this is The What’s Best Forum, I thought it appropriate to make mention of one of the best audio dealers I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. That man is Colin King of Gestalt Audio, in Nashville. My only affiliation is that of a happy customer. At the beginning of 2022 I was...
  7. paolo

    CAV 45S-2 In The House

    Just acquired this control amp about a week ago, and while it still needs a bit more settling in time, it's already sounding mighty fine. Speakers are Sonus Faber Guarneri Homage (circa 2004) and the synergy is excellent. I sold my vintage tube separates a few months ago, and while I certainly...
  8. paolo

    For those who have experience with both CJ and ARC integrated amps

    I recently sold my vintage tube separates and am using a VTL IT85. (60 WPC EL34 integrated) As good as I find the VTL I'd prefer a tube integrated that offered a warmer, more forgiving presentation. Speakers are Guarneri Homage. My budget is limited and I've narrowed my choices down to either CJ...
  9. paolo

    Tubes for VTL it85

    For those of you who are familiar with this component and/or VTL gear in general, can you kindly weigh-in on which tubes you prefer. My new-to-me second-generation (circa 2016) integrated came with strong Genalex KT77's and weak JJ small signal tubes. I am eager to replace the JJ's. Speakers...
  10. paolo

    Who loves her/his Pathos Logos MKII Hybrid Integrated?

    I'm finally done dealing with my vintage tube separates. Those who have endured the joys, trials, tribulations, and expense will understand. The amps may wind up as boat anchors, but that's another story. I'm looking for an "endgame" integrated to power my SF Guarneri Homage, and occasional...
  11. paolo

    Wells Audio Innamorata I vs latest Innamorata II

    I've heard the first generation of the Wells amp which I thought was outstanding, but not the second. Anyone here who can compare the two? I'm referring to the newer $7000 amp, not the $15,000 one. Thanks. Paolo
  12. paolo

    Cables: Sonus Faber Guarneri Homage

    I hope this is the appropriate forum in which to ask those of you who now have, or have had SF GH's what cables you've experimented with and decided upon. I power my GH's with either a tube preamp and tube monoblocks, or an extensively-upgraded Wells Audio Majestic Integrated. TT is an...
  13. paolo

    Guarneri Homage: A question regarding longevity and room size.

    I have an opportunity to purchase a pair of GH's. They are at least 22 years old. I'm concerned about the actual and potential deterioration of woofer surrounds and life of tweeter. Also, I'm now enjoying Cremona Auditor M's in a small, dedicated listening room: 11x13x8. Rear wall opens to the...
  14. paolo

    Sonus Faber Liuto Monitor vs Cremona Auditor M: Opinions please

    I'm new to this forum. I own and greatly enjoy a pair of the Liuto monitors in a small dedicated listening room. Electronics are excellent 120 WPC tube mono amps and a significantly upgraded octal tube preamp. I may have the opportunity to purchase a pair of Cremona Auditor M's but I will...

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