I have been looking around for my first Valve amp to start an audiophile quality system that I can build upon. I currently have a Rega RP3 turntable and will upgrade it to to a MC cart and metal sub platters. Yet to decide on speakers or phono.
I have nailed my search for a Valve amplifier to the below options
Manley Stingray
Pathos Twin Tower
Jadis Orchestra Reference
Cary V12
To give people an idea of the type of records I will soon on this, below should give an indication of the variety.
Radiohead - OK Computer
Rolling Stones- Let It Bleed
Beach Boys - Pet Sounds
Beach Boys - Smile
Nirvana - In Utero
Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream
Shellac - Acton Park
Iggy Pop & The Stooges - Fun House
Velvet Underground - White Light/White Heat
James Brown - Live at the Apollo
Nine Inch Nails - The Fragile
Johnny Cash - Live at Folsom Prison
Neil Young & Crazy Horse - Rust Never Dies
Elvis Presley - From Elvis in Memphis
Beck - Sea Change
Beatles - Revolver
Parliament - Chocolate City
Otis Redding - Live at Monterey
I think this covers reasonably well the variety music that will most commonly get played.
I am a total novice, but doing my best to learn fast. and am unsure what I should expect in regards to price be it RRP & secondhand.
I would LOVE it if anyone could take the time to let me know which order you rate each of these amps based on my collection above. I tend to like the sound to be louder and full of life. over intricate details. If they have experience of any known "Pro's" & "Con's" of each piece and what tends to pair up well with them, VERY much appreciated. Getting close to buying now and your feedback will most likely determine my direction. I guess the biggest influence for me know, after reading so so many reviews and such on these products is - how will they sound based on my preferred musical taste. Most reviewers tend to review them on classical tunes, & that concerns me greatly.
THANK YOU all in advance. I have only been loitering around this site for 3 weeks & can honestly say that it has been one of the warmest and outgoing communities I have come across on the internet.