Amp suggestions for Marten Coltrane Tenor

JayT

Well-Known Member
Oct 10, 2017
29
10
108
Hi Crom. Ended up with the tried and tested Vitus Combo. While it wouldn't grab your attention straight away, it gives me hours upon hours of listening without fatigue, which is something I really appreciate in an amplifier. The Audionet did give me something to think about, but to me, those amplifiers shine with single ended interconnects. Unfortunately,I'm already in too deep with balanced connections so didn't pursue it further. While I have not heard the current Karan amps, I have heard ASI amps paired with the Martens. Believe they are made by Karan as well? Oodles of power but I found Vitus gave more refinement. Recently I have been intrigued by Pilium amplifiers. In a casual listen (albeit with different speakers) I find it gives both power and refinement in equal measure. Might explore that in a couple of years time, but maybe another option for you to consider? Hope this helps a little!
 

Crom

Well-Known Member
Feb 11, 2016
10
1
133
Thanks JayT, I have Vitus SS-101 at the moment and it's fabulous - it sounds like maybe I should stick with what I know. I've heard the big 2000 Karan Monos but not the new POWERa's which are reportedly (on this site and in press, hifi+) excellent. Pilium seems to be getting a lot of attention recently. The name has come up a few times in my hunt but I've not heard of them before - I will investigate. Thanks for the tip!
 

Cellcbern

VIP/Donor
Jul 30, 2015
1,224
728
585
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Washington, DC
Hi all, currently a happy user of Marten Coltrane Tenors (mk1) speakers and Vitus SL-102 and SM 010 amps. DAC is CH Precision C1 and Ayon CDT 2 as a transport.

Recently the SM 010 developed buzzing on one of the amps, and the local dealer has given me a great deal for the SS 103. However, before I commit, I would like to ask everyone's opinion on what else I should consider?

I listen to vocals, piano, indie and some orchestral pieces now and then.

Any suggestions are welcome, but I prefer solid state.

Some amps I have listened to are Vitus (current amps), Soulution Integrated(a bit too "clinical" for my liking"), Dan D'Agostino (I like them, but not sure if they will match with my Vitus Pre), Gryphon Integrated (Too...dark?), but happy to take any suggestions.

Thanks!


 

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