[gjs_cds]

Hey Wayner--got a question for you. 

You can read about my system in my signature... And I must admit that I've always been T-8 curious.  I've currently got the solid-state older SL chassis pre-amp, and I'm completely happy with it.  But then again, I was happy w/o an AVA DAC--but after picking one up--I now know what I was missing.

Given the loudspeakers that I've got, what's your impression on the AVA SS vs. AVA tube comparison?  At some point, I'll be getting my SS gear upgraded to the Insight line (probably next summer)--but that might also be a good time to send in the SS pre-amp for a trade-in.    Since you've got both--I'd love to hear your thoughts on the subject...

[Wayner]

I don't have the Insight back yet. But in my studio, I have the luxury of owning 2 1/2 AVA systems. The first is the OmegaStar EC preamp powering the 260EX amp, powering some Paradigm Studio 40v.3's. The second system is the T8 powering the 170EX and that is running my very sweet Dynaco A25XL's. Then the Ultimate 70 proto-type sits next to it all and likes to be hooked up to the Dynaco A25XL's and the OmegaStar EC.

In the studio, I've been able to mix and match 3 amps with 3 sets of speakers and 2 sets of preamps. I think that gives me 18 different possible combinations! When I paired everything up, my goal was biggest soundstage, biggest 3D image and best freq/bass performance. I soon realized that it wasn't just an amp or a preamp or even speakers that controlled the sound of the system. There were some combinations that I didn't like as well. IMO, an all tube amp probably shouldn't be paired whit an all tube power amp. I thinks it gets to0 soft and too slow. Don't confuse this with the hybrids, however. That is a different untest story for me.

The 170EX can really put out a sound stage. It is very musical. Sometimes I think it lacks a little bass, but then I put something else on and wow, there's plenty of bass. The 260EX is very 3D. I can sit at my computer (way to the right) and here faily good stereo and I'm almost out of the triangle. That is incredible IMHO. The U70 blooms. It can't rock the foundation (only 33 watts per channel) but with the right efficiency speaker, that won't really matter, it can play loud enough for most. Don't pair it up with something 84db and then expect it to crack plaster, that's just plain not reality. If you like classical music at moderate levels, sit back and enjoy.

From my point of view, it's impossible to be objective with you on the sound of a particular piece as it just doesn't work that way. That's why I think it's very important to match the amp with a similar and compatible preamp, which in my mind, I have done.

I think I will hook up the U70 to the PAT-4 and see what that is like, a little later this afternoon.

Wayner

[Wayner]

I am playing the second song of Depeche Mode's newly remastered vinyl "Violator" and the U70 seems to love the old PAT-4......so far, Yikes is this fun.

W 

[bregez]

The PAT-4 is the most underrated "budget" SS preamp out there.    One can get a fine sounding preamp by performing the AVA modification coupled with replacing all the old drifted carbon comp resistors with new metal film resistors and replacing all the old mylar caps with some Vishay orange drops.   But like the ST-120, the PAT-4’s seem to have gone the way of chassis donators.   

[gjs_cds]

Thanks for the reply, Wayner.  I'm leaning to stick w/ the SS, because our system is on for probably 12 to 14 hours day.  (No exaggeration...)  But then again--I'll end up talking w/ Frank come upgrade time, and I'll just probably do whatever he recommends... 

[ecramer]

I'm thinking the same thing. I run my system 12 to 14 hours a day and have all ready chewed up 2 sets of  4 x 6sn7's this year in my Rogue Magnum 99. I do have a Rotel 1070 ss Pre but i would like something a little better.  Just haven't made up my mind yet what i want I keep looking  at franks SS pre and the odyssey tempest i am also looking at coda and  innersound. Recently Tim Rawsonte of gainclone fame has been occasionally offered a Pass Labs clone Pre that has peaked my interest.

ED

Thanks for the reply, Wayner.  I'm leaning to stick w/ the SS, because our system is on for probably 12 to 14 hours day.  (No exaggeration...)  But then again--I'll end up talking w/ Frank come upgrade time, and I'll just probably do whatever he recommends... 

[Wayner]

While the PAT-4 is keeping me entertained this weekend, It is in no way even close to the performance of the OmegaStar EC preamp. With that being upgraded as we type, the Insight should bring performance and speed that will really render the PAT-4 next to useless (from a snobbish point of view).

However, I will keep the old dog for the time being as an acceptable backup as circumstances arise.

Wayner

[xecluded]

I am the person who won that Omega II 170 on ebay.  I planned to replace all the aging electrolytic caps in that amp.  Hopefully that's all there is to bring it back to proper working condition.  I've always wanted to try a Van Alstine amp.  Wish me luck.

[avahifi]

Aside from the tons of rust, the electrolytic caps should still be in working order.  We used modern PC card "snap in" types and have rarely ever had to replace any of them.

The most likely issue would be that the DC balance and Bias adjustments have been diddled out of spec.  You can call me at 651-330-9871 for advice on setting these.  It does take a dual trace scope, signal generator and ammeter to do it.

Regards,

Frank Van Alstine

[Zheeeem]

I am the person who won that Omega II 170 on ebay.  I planned to replace all the aging electrolytic caps in that amp.  Hopefully that's all there is to bring it back to proper working condition.  I've always wanted to try a Van Alstine amp.  Wish me luck.

Jeeeeeeeeez.  I have an entire AVA SS system that predates the Omega II and none of it has ever needed a part replaced.  For reference, it's in our HT and my wife leaves it on for at least 12 hours a day (because she always falls asleep in front of it).  "Robust" is a big understatement.

I hope you enjoy as much as I have.

[xecluded]

Thank you for your advise Frank.  I am not much of a tech and can only do some minor soldering. Also dont have any such tools.  Perhaps, I will just have him send it directly to you.  Can you please let me know how much would it cost for having the unit look over and doing adjustment as such.  I tried to call but could not get a hold of you.  I will try back some other time.  Thanks.