[Merle]

After going back and forth for years, last week I pulled the trigger on a Van Alstine amp & preamp. I called and spoke with Frank and purchased a new T8 preamp with a 240EX amp. I'll use these to drive a pair of Paradigm Studio 60 loudspeakers playing mostly vinyl. I use a low output MC and already own a phono pre that I really like so I didn't opt for the built in phono stage with the T8. I do kind of wish I had sprung for the remote option but I didn't. I could use the exercise getting off the couch I guess. My only regret is that Frank says there is a four week or so lead time to receive the amps. These will replace a Jolida 502B in my system. Think it will much of an upgrade? The Jolida is sweet and runs the Paradigm's fine but I believe the extra solid state wattage will flesh out the bass a bit. I'd also have to imagine that the T8 should be quite a step up from the preamp section in the 502B. Let's hope the next few weeks go by fast!

[pearsall001]

Merle,

I also had the Jolida 502B (modified) & I can honestly say that I don't miss it at all. Frank steered me into his 440EX. One terrific amp & a huge upgrade over the Jolida. I have a CJ PV14L tube preamp & speakers are a pair of AAD 2001 monitors. I couldn't be happier. Don't feel bad about the wait, it took 7 weeks to get mine (Frank was still recovering from his operation). It was well worth the wait. Presently I'm still mulling over if I should give Frank's Ultra DAC a try.

[10ear]

Been using Frank's equipment for more years than I care to remember. He has never steered me wrong. Dont mull over the Dac, try it. You will love it. Have ultra pre, dac and 550 and all are very,very special. Pre will make any amp sound good, the Dac adds a presense to cds that is unreal and the Amp should drive most everything. I know what I think sounds good and what I can afford
and AVA fills the bill. On the other hand, my name be 10ear.....

[Wayner]

I just received my T8 with phono and remote option. It operates my 260EX which is connected to Paradigm Studio 40v.3's. The Vinyl rivals the CD's in dynamic impact! It will be worth the wait. I use a Sumiko Blue Point Special 2.5 mv output MC cartridge in my older VPI HW-19 and the phono section of the T8 is really good. Have Fun!

W

[Merle]

I really have high hopes for the T8. I owned one of Franks solid state preamps a few years back and just loved it. I imagine his latest designs are just that much better. The Omega preamp I owned was as transparent as a preamp can be. I also really liked the feel of the controls. The stepped volume control was a joy to use. I think once the amps are in place, my system will stay as it is for some time. I've swapped so much gear over the last few years it isn't funny. I basically went back to equipment that I have owned before and liked. The Paradigm Studio 60's are, in my opinion, wonderfull. I can't wait to hear what they will sound like with 125 solid state AVA watts and the sweetness of an all tube, high quality preamp. My phono preamp is the Jolida JD9 running NOS RCA tubes. I have not heard any phono pre under a grand or so that I would trade it for. It's an amazing phono preamp for $450 new. Plus, it can drive the heck out of any cartridge you care to throw at it. Really, really looking forward to the day my new amps are in the house!

[MarkM]

After lurking and researching all other contenders, I ordered a Fet Valve Ultra 550 today.  Took my time, almost a year to decide between the Fet Valve and one of the UcD based amps and a few other contenders.   Been using a T8 pre for over a year now and am very,very pleased.  The T8 is extended at both extemes, with excellent bass.  Nice hint of tubes.  The phono section performs excellent for the money.   Looking for that magic between the two AVA components to drive my Selah Audio RC3R speakers.

[randyr]

interesting thread.  i have a jolida 502 and was thinking about upgrading to the t8 with the new 'ultra 80'.  frank recommended the fet 350 to match up.  i listen with ellis 1801's.  i really like the sound, but........

[warnerwh]

For a few years I thought I should try one of Frank's hybrid amplifiers. Now that I have I couldn't be more pleased. It's one of the mainstays of my system. It has a home as I don't believe I could do any better even for much more money.