What speakers are you using with your RW amp?

mozvz · « **Reply #120 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 03:21 am »

Has anyone tried the RW 30.2 with Dynaudio speakers?

Nominal impedance: 4 ohms. Sensitivity: 88dB/2.83V/m. Recommended amplification: up to 300W.

rydenfan · « **Reply #121 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 03:24 am »

Hello, my friend

funny to see you here. Vinnie offers a 30 day trial policy and the amps are quite easy to ship, go for it

mozvz · « **Reply #122 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 02:21 pm »

Hello D,

Yes, I am taking a walk on the wild side here!!

I think I am going to give one of Vinnie's amps a test drive. I am tired of lugging around the bruts of audio even though the Pass XA series is attractive. Rack space or lack of it and as the summer months approach, heat is not a desirable element in my small room.

rydenfan · « **Reply #123 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 02:52 pm »

It is nice over here

Vinnie is a great guy and I am sure you will be pleased. I might suggest the 70's over the 30's for you if the budget permits. I look forward to your thoughts...

mozvz · « **Reply #124 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 04:50 pm »

David,

The Mono's would be nice no doubt, but I have to move some audio real estate before I could purchase them. However, if this works out, it would be part of my plan down the road IF they have an ideal synergy with the Dynaudios.

Thank you for the suggestion.

Profbratsch · « **Reply #125 on:** 15 Mar 2009, 09:38 pm »

If you don't mind some sound advice

I would wait until you get the funds for the 70.2s. I have LSA 1 Statement monitors that are 88dB efficient with an impedance of 6 ohms and, with the 30.2 power amp, I experienced clipping during symphonic peaks on certain recordings. I made the switch to the 70.2s and the doubling of the current has made a world of difference. You will also appreciate better bass definition with the monos.

I had a behemoth of an integrated amp for a couple of years and I too can celebrate by not needing a hernia belt or weight trainer to move my electronics

Vinnie R. · « **Reply #126 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 01:55 pm »

Hi mozvz,

Welcome to Audiocircle and the RWA forum!

The 30.2 will be able to push your 88dB, 4-ohm Dynaudios - but not like a 200W brut force amp.
However, in the volume range that the 30.2 plays them, you will be treated to very sweet sound

The 70.2s will give you more current into 4-ohm (more power) and do a better job, as
Profbratsch mentions above - and besides the extra current, the 70.2s are even better sounding.

In terms of having enough power, it really depends on how loud you play your music. You can always try
the 30.2 and trade up to the 70.2s

Hi Profbratsch and rydenfan,

Thanks for your posts!

Best regards,

Vinnie

jwes · « **Reply #127 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 02:52 pm »

Mozvz,

Just a quick thought on my experience here. I have similarly spec'd Dyn's (which I need to sell), and also similarly spec'd Dali's (Euphonia MS4's). I really wanted to go with Vinnie's amps, but my experience with even higher powered amps showed that I really needed more power.

So, one thing to consider is the Isabella pre-amp. I went this route and love it. I still get that injection of RWA's analog-like sound and just put higher powered amps with this. You also gain the ability to change tubes to taste. By the way, I also have the integrated Isabellina DAC, which is crazy good. For example, the digital output of my Modwright transporter into the Isabellina DAC has been every bit as good as the super modded, tubed output stage of the MWTP. Now, I have not finished tube rolling in the Transporter and I expect with the next version it will be significantly different, but this is just to suggest that you consider the Isabella to start your journey with Red Wine (and the integrated Isabellina DAC if funds works).

Jim

Mariusz · « **Reply #128 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 03:28 pm »

Quote from: jwes on 16 Mar 2009, 02:52 pm

Mozvz,

Just a quick thought on my experience here. I have similarly spec'd Dyn's (which I need to sell), and also similarly spec'd Dali's (Euphonia MS4's). I really wanted to go with Vinnie's amps, but my experience with even higher powered amps showed that I really needed more power.

So, one thing to consider is the Isabella pre-amp. I went this route and love it. I still get that injection of RWA's analog-like sound and just put higher powered amps with this. You also gain the ability to change tubes to taste. By the way, I also have the integrated Isabellina DAC, which is crazy good. For example, the digital output of my Modwright transporter into the Isabellina DAC has been every bit as good as the super modded, tubed output stage of the MWTP. Now, I have not finished tube rolling in the Transporter and I expect with the next version it will be significantly different, but this is just to suggest that you consider the Isabella to start your journey with Red Wine (and the integrated Isabellina DAC if funds works).

Jim

I'll 2nd that.

mozvz · « **Reply #129 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 05:13 pm »

Quote from: jwes on 16 Mar 2009, 02:52 pm

Mozvz,

Just a quick thought on my experience here. I have similarly spec'd Dyn's (which I need to sell), and also similarly spec'd Dali's (Euphonia MS4's). I really wanted to go with Vinnie's amps, but my experience with even higher powered amps showed that I really needed more power.

So, one thing to consider is the Isabella pre-amp. I went this route and love it. I still get that injection of RWA's analog-like sound and just put higher powered amps with this. You also gain the ability to change tubes to taste. By the way, I also have the integrated Isabellina DAC, which is crazy good. For example, the digital output of my Modwright transporter into the Isabellina DAC has been every bit as good as the super modded, tubed output stage of the MWTP. Now, I have not finished tube rolling in the Transporter and I expect with the next version it will be significantly different, but this is just to suggest that you consider the Isabella to start your journey with Red Wine (and the integrated Isabellina DAC if funds works).

Jim

Jim,

Thank you for the thoughts on your experience with the Isabella. It is something to consider. You are correct on the Dynaudio's that they tend to like more power and that is why I am tentative at the moment with smaller amps. I have various ways to proceed with this change and that is what's taking me so much time to reach a decision. One day I want to go this way and the next moment, I have another concoction in my mind.

Maybe you could provide some feedback or if anyone is inclined to do so, please do so.

My current system is a 5.1 system in a dedicated room. The equipment is:

Dynaudio Sapphire Speakers
Conrad Johnson Act 2 version 1
Sim Audio Titan
JL 113
11 X 13 x 9 room

Center and rears are a mismatch but its not an issue as I am not picky about HT. Music is my primary focus at the moment. I purchased the Sapphires about 7-8 months ago and am happy with the output. However, there is always the unknown of adding a dedicated 2 channel or a pair of monoblocks such as Vinnie offers here. I was also looking at the Pass XA series either the 30.5 or the 60.5.

The Pass XA amps are stellar performers from what I've read. Initially I was considering the XA 30.5 (6K MSRP) and the mono's 60.5 (11K MSRP) but then some people on the audiogon forum have suggested the 30.5 X 2 at 4 ohms Class A power would not be sufficient and I'd be disappointed. The 60.5's are much more expensive, but I could manage them with a trade of my current amp. At the same time with the Pass product line, I have to deal with the weight, minimal rack space, which I am short of as my room is very tight in nature and of course the heat from the SS amps.

In your estimation, perhaps moving to the Isabella would be another move to consider rather then the Signature Mono 70.2?? I am always open to suggestions and thoughts because as you know, there are various paths along the way where you can make different choices. I am NOT totally confidant in what decision I could/should make. I not a spring chicken by any means and have been into this hobby for quite some time. At the same time, my personality is not one to consume peoples time like Vinnie or anyone else' s even though I am sincere with a potential purchase. I just really want to be 100% certain that the component selected, would enhance and improve output and NOT just a lateral move.

Thanks,
Charles

Profbratsch · « **Reply #130 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 08:27 pm »

Charles,

There is a pair of 70.2s on the 'Gon for $2,650 obo and they have been on the market for about three and one-half months. If memory serves me correctly the seller lived on the East Coast and only recently moved overseas. I think you could get them for closer to $2,500, maybe less (shipping should not be terribly expensive). Check with Vinnie and see if he would honor the remainder of the warranty.

I do have the Isabella/Isabellina along with the 70.2s and they are wonderful with the LSA 1 Statement monitors. My system is computer-based but the sound that emanates from the speakers is not at all digital. There is the warmth of the tubes but not at the expense of detail. I was amazed at how Vinnie's creations could define bass attack and pitch given their "modest" output (compared to the mega-watt products on the market). You would have absolutely no problem reselling the pre-amp if you decided it wasn't for you but somehow I don't think you would want to part with it once you hear it.

My dedicated listening room is 18x14 with 7 1/2 ceiling height and I never have to push the volume control past the 12 o'clock position. Most of the time it is closer to 10 o'clock. Given your room dimensions you should be just fine with RWA gear.

It's great having you join the Forum. Keep those messages coming...

jwes · « **Reply #131 on:** 16 Mar 2009, 10:09 pm »

Hi Charles,

Well from first pass (get it?) it seems like you're looking at all great stuff. I suggested the Isabella as a way to foray into the "Vinnie sound" without having to worry about power. Now I'm going to confuse you. Take a look at the 6moons review, in which they (Srajan and Gary Krakow from TheStreet.com) marvel at the "driving" ability of the 30.2: http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/redwine8/302.html. My mind, when I was on this journey, went to: well, if the 30.2 has this much drive at 30 W into 4 ohms, then maybe I'll be o.k. with 70 W into 4 ohms with the 70.2. In addition, as Vinnie notes, the 70.2's have other sonic attributes above the 30.2, and the 30.2 received a 6moons award that is given out less frequently than once per year.

Confused? Good - now look at Isabella: http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/redwine10/isabella.html

It's a tough call. Vinnie's money back guarantee after a good month or more of listening helps. In my view, you can't go wrong with the Isabella. It is slightly possible to go wrong with the 70.2's if the power doesn't do it, but these are returnable unless you take a gamble on the pre-owned pair (but at half price this might be well worth it). The only reason I didn't go all RWA (went with Spectron Musician III Mk2 monos), was that I had a Naim amp that is conservatively rated at about 90W into 4 ohms, and it wasn't quite doing the trick for me.

I also loved the idea of tweaking the sound of the Isabella with a bit of tube rolling.

Sorry for not being definitive - that is too hard in this relative world of systems and rooms! Hope this helps and enjoy the hunt!

Jim

Vinnie R. · « **Reply #132 on:** 20 Mar 2009, 02:05 pm »

Quote

It's a tough call. Vinnie's money back guarantee after a good month or more of listening helps. In my view, you can't go wrong with the Isabella. It is slightly possible to go wrong with the 70.2's if the power doesn't do it, but these are returnable unless you take a gamble on the pre-owned pair (but at half price this might be well worth it).

I have to agree with Jim!

You'll fall in love with the Isabella no matter what, and it is worth trying the 70.2s to see if they offer enough power for your needs. If not, you have 30-days and there is no restocking fee

As always, please let me know if you have any questions.

Vinnie

kaka · « **Reply #133 on:** 11 Jul 2009, 11:21 pm »

Quote from: Afterimage on 17 May 2008, 07:18 pm

I am using a Mark and Daniel Ruby and Monitor Audio GS-60s with the 70.2s. I like both speakers as they have a different presentation and each does certain things better. The Ruby's image well, have good depth or present the music more 3D, and the bass in pretty darn good for such a small speaker. The GS-60s have tons of detail/clarity. A lot of people say the Monitor Audio GS-60s might be to much of a good thing, but those same people seem to be matching them with HT recievers. With the 70.2s, I get the best of both worlds, the detail I enjoy, but without the brightness. I thought about looking into the Omega's, but even though they don't look bad, they do not have the WAF as the Ruby's or GS-60s. IMO, the GS-60s are one of the nicest looking speakers out there.

I had seen this post and thought good - my GS60s will work with the 70.2s
I got a demo pair of Signature in yesterday and found the effect is quite different to my usual Plinius 102 (120w, switchable to class A). It brings the bass end of the speakers to life, and that integrates with the sound from the other drivers.

The Signatures gave me more pronounced uppers and mids but far less in the bass end, so the sound was a lot different, slanted well away from the mix I am used to. I preferred the Plinius. To me it looks like a mismatch - not enough output from the Signatures to achieve synergies, or looking at it the other way the Monitor Audios are not efficient enough for the combo to really work.

The pre was an Isabella, the ICs Livelines, the speaker cable Kimber Monocle XL

Vinnie R. · « **Reply #134 on:** 13 Jul 2009, 01:44 pm »

Hi Kaka,

The GS-60 is a 6-ohm, 90dB speaker - so as long as this spec is accurate, they should be efficient enough for the 70.2s.

Thanks for letting us know your findings with this pairing.

Best regards,

Vinnie

Afterimage · « **Reply #135 on:** 13 Jul 2009, 06:02 pm »

Kaka might not be to far off. According to the MA owners thread, they really like a lot of power, and generally only powerfull solid state amps are recomended with them.
With that said, I have not had any trouble driving my GS 60s with the 70.2. I tried them with a more powerful Sim Audio amp, and the sound sig. did indeed change, it sounds more exciting and more extended than the 70.2s upon first listening. However I noticed sibilance right away, and then after about the 5th song I started to get fatigue. I never heard the Plinius amps, except their rep is they kind of give the best of both worlds, power with control and some warmth. Moot point for me, I actually have the WLM LA Scala's on the way in the near future and we know those are a good match with the RWA.

kaka · « **Reply #136 on:** 14 Jul 2009, 08:20 am »

Quote from: Vinnie R. on 13 Jul 2009, 01:44 pm

Hi Kaka,

The GS-60 is a 6-ohm, 90dB speaker - so as long as this spec is accurate, they should be efficient enough for the 70.2s.

Thanks for letting us know your findings with this pairing.

Best regards,

Vinnie

Exactly - I was hoping the 70s would fire them up but Monitor Audio do recommend 60 watts+ of course. I am really enjoying the Isabella so I took the chance to check out an all RWA lineup.

Thinking alternatives the Zu Audios are not available here, but Living Voice are - they would be worth a listen. They are rated at 94db (but into 6 ohm).

Vinnie R. · « **Reply #137 on:** 16 Jul 2009, 01:40 pm »

Hi Kaka,

6-ohm is not a problem, and 94dB is quite efficient. Going from 90dB speakers to 94dB speakers is like having a little more than 2x the amplifier power.

Still, 90dB speakers are usually efficient enough for the 30.2 and 70.2s - so it might just be a speaker-to-amplifier "mating" issue with regards to your GS60s.

Best regards,

Vinnie

adamaley · « **Reply #138 on:** 23 Jan 2010, 08:08 am »

About to pull the trigger on a pair of Acoustic Zen Adagios. I've scoured this entire thread and see no mention of anyone pairing them with Red Wine Amps. I currently use Odyssey Stereo Extreme amps, but hope to switch to a 30.2 to complement the Isabellina in my system. I'm eventually looking to go all-battery with the Isabella (way down the road). Anyone with any experience with this combo. Is it enough power, and what were your sonic impressions.

Thanks

jcbbytes · « **Reply #139 on:** 25 Jan 2010, 05:35 pm »

Hi,I'm planning on buying a 30.2 power amp for my avantgarde duo Omegas 108db / 16 ohm

Does anyone have this combination or knows someone who does?

Thanks,Joel