[nature boy]

Has anyone had an opportunity to listen the the Vaughn Audio - Carina SET amplifier and can you share your observations/impressions.  Thanks.

Here is a link: http://www.vaughnaudio.com/carina.html

NB

[nature boy]

bump

[Brad]

It seems like a fantastic amp if you have speakers that will work with it.
I was under the impression there are only a handful that have actually shipped though. 

[ohenry]

I use a Carina with Horn Shoppe Model 2's.  I have the detailed signature version that uses v caps.  Here are a few quick thoughts...

The Carina is a flea powered amp, but manages to have authoritative bass and impressive dynamics.  I'd characterize its presentation as rich and smooth with wonderful imaging.  I think it mates perfectly with high efficiency, single driver speakers.  It has that single-ended magic along with surprising grunt.

The build and parts selection is of heirloom quality.  This is a top shelf EL-84 design and is worth the wait/search.  Dealing with Eddie is a bonus.

[nature boy]

Thanks Brad and Henry.  I have been e-mailing Eddie and it appears that there will be new units available in the next few months.   I am thinking about changing up my system to a SET amplifier and high efficiency speaker.  Right now I am considering a pair of Horn Shoppe "the Horn", Parker Audio 95 signatures, Hawthorne Solos's, or one of Louis's Omega Hemp speakers to mate with the Carina - looking for speakers with sensitivity of 95dB at 8ohms or better.  I am leaning toward Ed Shilling's offering.

NB

[JLM]

Eddie is extremely knowledgable and very honest.

As you say, finding the right speaker will be the key as high efficiency speakers tend to have more colorations.  On paper, you'd want very high efficiency speakers (100 dB/w/m or better).  My guess is that the Carina deserves the best possible speakers.

Bob Brines offers a couple of single driver mass loaded transmission line speakers that could fit the bill.  Transmission lines provides deep, musical bass.  Bob sells plans, panelized kits, unfinished cabinets, or completed speakers.  If Lowthers are your cup of tea, the LT2000 might be the ticket.  And they both live in Arkansas.