TAD M1000 vs M2500 thoughts?

[Ricco275]

Pondering between a new TAD M1000 power amp and a 8 years old used M2500 mk1.
I’ve read the M2500 is overall more expensive than the M1000 as it has much bigger transformers and it’s cut from a 90kg aluminium block, with the M1000 having updated internal components vs the M2500 mk1, and that the listenable difference is marginal.
At the same price, is an 8 years old M2500 mk1 much better than a new M1000?
the extra massive weight and aesthetics of the M2500 are cons to me.
Appreciate the advice.

 

[Pokey77]

Pondering between a new TAD M1000 power amp and a 8 years old used M2500 mk1.
I’ve read the M2500 is overall more expensive than the M1000 as it has much bigger transformers and it’s cut from a 90kg aluminium block, with the M1000 having updated internal components vs the M2500 mk1, and that the listenable difference is marginal.
At the same price, is an 8 years old M2500 mk1 much better than a new M1000?
the extra massive weight and aesthetics of the M2500 are cons to me.
Appreciate the advice.

@Ricco275

First of all, haven't heard the M1000. So I can't compare. But I've lived with the M2500 Mk1 for six years or so. I can tell you that I've heard my E1s with the Luxman 509X & M900u/C900u combo, Pass INT60 & I think INT200, Burmester 032 integrated, and Burmester 909 MkV. Only the $80k 909 MkV was better. That was using their mid-line preamp and all this was listened to around six years ago. I had really hoped that the 509X would get the job done, but it wasn't really even close to the M2500/C2000 combo. Yes, the TAD equipment was much more money even used, but it is also much better.

I agree the 95 lb. weight and Oreo cookie aesthetic are both downsides, but I can say that once you have it in its place, it makes beautiful music.

It does make sense that the M2500 Mk1 sounds very good with the Evolution line of speakers since it was developed specifically for that line. I love mine and have no thoughts of changing/moving to another amp.

BTW, haven't heard Vitus.

 

[Ricco275]

Thanks @Pokey77. I’ll go with the M1000 most likely. And later add a C2000. For now I have a passive preamp from Music First Audio which is fantastic.

 

[Pokey77]

I think the TAD will synergize best with your ME-1s; good choice. Really like my C2000; it has a great DAC too. Have thought of giving MSB a try, but have not as of yet.