Help on purchasing high end used system

DoodleBoy · « **on:** 12 Dec 2003, 05:22 am »

Audiophile Gurus… I need your help.

Someone is selling his audio system which consists of:

1 pair Sonus Faber Electra Amator for mids and high
1 pair KEF (old model) for the bass
1 pair of unknown tweeters for highs
6 tube Classe if I am not mistaken monoblock amps powering the mids and high speakers
1 Mark Levinson 200 watt ss amp for the KEF
1 active cross-over
2 Linn pre-amps for the left and right
1 Wadia CD player

I am a novice who’s system consists of a Rotel pre-amp, amp, Rotel source and straight to B&W speakers so buying this system is scaring me. However, the guy is on the verge of bankruptcy and I might be able to get a good deal for some units.

Right now I am planning to get the Sonus Amator speakers, and a pair of tube amps and the pre for it (bedroom system). Might also get another pair of tube amps and the pre for my B&W 803’s (which I already own). Of course the cables and interconnects. And maybe the Wadia top mount CD player too

My question is… what is the difference between an active and a passive system? Can I get the items I said above without the active crossover and just drive them using the pre and the amp or is it a totally different system. I heard the seller mentioning that he cut out the cross-overs from the speakers. What does that mean. Please enlighten me.

I am planning to buy the items I mentioned above for say $8,000 is that a good price?

BTW - this system is in the Philippines so I am the only buyer hehehe since I live here

TheChairGuy · « **Reply #1 on:** 12 Dec 2003, 05:30 am »

Quote

My question is… what is the difference between an active and a passive system? Can I get the items I said above without the active crossover and just drive them using the pre and the amp or is it a totally different system. I heard the seller mentioning that he cut out the cross-overs from the speakers. What does that mean. Please enlighten me.My question is… what is the difference between an active and a passive system? Can I get the items I said above without the active crossover and just drive them using the pre and the amp or is it a totally different system. I heard the seller mentioning that he cut out the cross-overs from the speakers. What does that mean. Please enlighten me.

DoodleBoy,

Recent posts on that subject should help a bit with this question, at least. Go to: http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=6375&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

warnerwh · « **Reply #2 on:** 12 Dec 2003, 05:35 am »

I'd check prices on audiogon.com.

audiojerry · « **Reply #3 on:** 12 Dec 2003, 03:26 pm »

$8k is still a serious outlay of cash, so it would be a good idea to do some homework. If you are not already an audiogon Bluebook member, you can join audiogon and purchase their online bluebook option - I think it's around $45. Then you can check prices and the selling history of each item to help determine if you are getting a good deal. More importantly, if you live near the guy, pay him a visit so you can inspect the condition of the gear, and do some serious listening to make sure his system pleases you. This is an unusual system setup. It certainly has components with some very good brands and track records. I didn't know Classe made tube amplifiers.

This has the potential of being a really great deal, but there is also the potential to be very disappointed.

Good luck!

Hantra · « **Reply #4 on:** 12 Dec 2003, 04:41 pm »

Quote

This has the potential of being a really great deal, but there is also the potential to be very disappointed.

Well said Jerr. . . While all of these are probably pretty good components in their own right, I would hesitiate to drop that kind of cash until I could hear this system. It sounds like quite a mix of stuff, and I have no idea how it could possibly sound great. Perhaps it does. I just am not sure I believe in mixing and matching all that different stuff for different frequencies. There has to be a very low level of coherency, in my mind. OTOH, the guy may have stumbled upon a super combo.

I know if it were me, I'd take my $8K and go shopping for my own system instead of buying someone else's worries. . At least you would be damned sure you're getting everything the way you want it. . .

Offer him $4,500, and then even if it blows, you can come out making money. . .

B

DoodleBoy · « **Reply #5 on:** 13 Dec 2003, 01:33 am »

I heard the system and it was the MOST beautiful system i;ve ever heard hahaha. excellent soundstage and depth. the only problem is you need a big big room. the whole set-up was like hmm... a star wars city! all lit up and wires running around the floor.

Well... to cut things short the guy died of a heart attack and the family wanted to dispose the system (didnt want to mention a sad thing).

I am a bit worried that iit might not work that great if i bring the system to my smaller listening room and i might not know how to connect everyting up again.

BTW - how will i know if speakers are passive or active? especially the sonus amators? i love their mids

Hantra · « **Reply #6 on:** 13 Dec 2003, 02:21 am »

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the guy died of a heart attack

That sucks. But if you like the system, then make an offer. Keep in mind the "what if it sucks in my room" question when you spit out a number though. How much is the risk worth to you? That's what I would ask myself. . .

B

michael w · « **Reply #7 on:** 13 Dec 2003, 11:23 am »

Gawd , was it the system that killed him ?

On paper it reads like a bit of a mishmash.

I would follow Hantra's advice and take your $8K and start afresh.

cheers

lkosova · « **Reply #8 on:** 13 Dec 2003, 04:42 pm »

Doodle,

Here's my take. See what 8k can get you then compare. If you do buy just label all the wires etc before disconnecting and WRITE IT DOWN!!!!

Then wait and go listen again. You are only negotiating with yourself....so unless there is a relitative that wants the system...wait but seem interested and talk with the principal in charge of the estate.

You will probably walk away with the system at 50% the offer so don't rush it. They want to get rid of it and you want to buy it. You might even get the old sofa in the corner!!!

Good Luck

Larry

warnerwh · « **Reply #9 on:** 13 Dec 2003, 05:29 pm »

Could someone tell me which Classe amp uses tubes? Thanks

DoodleBoy · « **Reply #10 on:** 15 Dec 2003, 02:39 am »

I do not think they are classe monoblocks.... my bad

I have to go back to check the brand out but I am sure they are high end stuff since this guy isnt cheap when it comes to these stuff. I remember him saying those amps cost him 5K a pc. when he got them from Hong Kong.

Yes, I will take my time before I get the system. Thanks for your advice. Might go for his audiophile CDs first. I am sure I can get those for peanuts hahaha.

BTW - how can I tell if the crossovers in his speakers are altered? I am interested in the sonus electra amator if they are not touched.