update on spire amp compatibility
As stated above, I'm using a VTL MB125 w/ the spire. I just got the spire yesterday, and they have about 6 hours of play on them (I know, it should be about 44 hours by now).
The amps are switchable from tetrode to triode. The manual rates them as follows:
Tetrode:
8 ohms 100 w
4 ohms 130 w
Triode:
8 ohms 55 w
4 ohms 65 w
So they don't quite follow the ML recommendation of doubling wattage with half the impedence. I guess VTL planned for these to handle about a 5 ohm load to get the rated wattage. I have no idea what the current output would be (amps = watts / volts, but what are the volts? Is it 120 or jumped up in the amp?)
Regardless, my system sounds almost incredibly excellent tonally. Almost. I have been listening in triode mode (small orchestral and acoustic jazz combos mostly) and I do not have my spires positioned anywhere near ideal, nor have they broken in yet. The only non-ecstatic comment I have is that I sometimes notice a slight un-easiness in the upper registers. But the spires aren't broken in yet and I'm not doing any critical listening, so this could just be me. Plus I've been out of hi-end audio for some years, so my ears aren't that good a reference. Heck, I've still got to sell my old speakers which are sitting right behind the spires!!! And I'm waiting on a PS Audio Quintet to help filter the power, which, as I now hear, has bumps, hisses, hums and other nasty frizzles happening just about all the time.
On the plus side, I am enjoying the tranparency, extension on BOTH ends, and detail. Like I've never heard before. The bass is really fantastically integrated and the adjustments make a useable difference. And it holds up to louder rock at moderate levels. I'll try more tomorrow:: :rocker: Close to the Edge :rocker:. And it seems to handle pipe organ well (I'll test this loud tomorrow too.). (Note, I haven't been out checking out gear for about a decade, so I don't know what's in the stores, but I can hear OK, and it really sounds good.)
I'm really shocked at how details can suddenly appear and become a presence, and yet the rest of the music doesn't get pushed aside; it remains steady with an undisturbed flow and dynamic, and each component maintains it's own distinct timbre. It's very strange to hear a recording that sounds so realistic. It's also strange to hear lips smack and breathing noises of singers in preparation for the next verse in most vocal music. But I think this aspect has been a little too noticed by me. I feel like I'm listening for details a little more than the whole piece because it's a novelty in my living room. I guess it's just me drinking too much coffee (or wine) and staring into the stereo!!
Very happy. Can't wait to get them tuned in, burned in, and get the new cartridge installed!!
