[majnun70]

I currently have a Cary SLP-05 and I love it, but am considering a switch to a Modwright pre to match what I think will be my future amp (either 150 or 100SE).  I think one of the reasons I love the Cary is its use of 6SN7 tubes, so the LS100 seemed like a natural choice (albeit a big price difference compared to the Cary), but am now considering the 36.5.  Although I've never heard a 6H30 based preamp before, I've read some accounts of it being less tubey and more solid state-like, which for me seems to defeat the purpose of using tubes.

Can anyone with personal experience with both preamps provide some insight?  My speakers are Gallo Classico CL-3 and Dynaudio 1.3SE.  (I have a small dedicated, treated room.)  My frontend is a VPI Classic turntable (with EAR 834P phono and Aqvox 2ci phono).  I listen to 50% electric (modern/indie rock), 25% acoustic (folk, country) and 25% small ensemble jazz.

Thanks.

[majnun70]

Also, if you know anyone selling a used 150 or 100SE and a LS100 or LS36.5, then please let me know.

[Ern Dog]

If you already own the Cary SLP-05 and you love it, then why not keep it and see how it sounds with your new Modwright amps.  What makes you think it won't be a good match?

[dminches]

It is also not a fair comparison because the LS-100 costs around $3500 and the SLP-05 costs $8500.

[Phil A]

I have a LS36.5DM (with the KWA150SE).  I've heard the LS100 (with the KWA100SE) but not in the same system or same room.  I'm not one that likes or dislikes gear based on whether it has or does not have tubes.  I find the LS36.5DM very neutral but if one likes typical tube sound in may not be your cup of tea.  The LS100 also did not jump out at me as typical tube sound.  I've owned Dan's modded players (including an old XA-777ES years back with the Absolute Truth Mod) and always found them to have the same neutral character.  When I had the XA-777ES, I had people over who typically did not like tube sound and they really liked the player.

[majnun70]

I definitely plan to see how the Mod amp sounds with the Cary, and I'm sure it'll sound good.  I guess I'm just anticipating how a Mod pre might have a synergy that the Cary can't reproduce.

Thanks, Phil, that's helpful.

[Phil A]

I definitely plan to see how the Mod amp sounds with the Cary, and I'm sure it'll sound good.  I guess I'm just anticipating how a Mod pre might have a synergy that the Cary can't reproduce.

Thanks, Phil, that's helpful.

I had a Bryston 14BSST when I first got the LS36.5DM and the Modwright amp sounded better and worked better with the preamp and I use the HT Bypass.  I like the fact that I don't need the Modwright preamp on when I watch a movie and use its bypass mode so it is not burning tube life.  I believe with the LS100 you need the unit on to do HT Bypass

[roscoeiii]

Srajan on 6moons had a 36.5 and now uses the LS100. In passing in a review recently he discussed why he preferred the sound of the LS100 in his system. He tends to do a good job of discussing components in terms of their synergy with other components.

[dminches]

The LS-100 does need to be powered on for the HT bypass to work.

[playntheblues]

I seconded the comment if you love the Cary DON"T SELL IT!

[roscoeiii]

I seconded the comment if you love the Cary DON"T SELL IT!

+1

Maybe see about a Modwright audition.

And I would wait until you have settled on an amp. Synergy is crucial. A great pairing of a Modwright pre with your current amp doesn't necessarily mean it will sound better (to you, in your system, according to your preferences) with a Modwright amp.

[Ern Dog]

Any updates from OP?