Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo Just Put M80 V2s Back in System

The so-called magic of tubes is partly a result of how they drive speakers. Tube amps have a high output impedance by 1000 times or more compared to solid state. They therefore won't dampen an electrodynamic loudspeaker the way a solid state amp does. Bass will sound more full at certain frequencies but it will be less detailed almost like the box needs more stuffing. Upper mids/low highs will have greater presence. These may be perceived as better by some.

So you will lose that magic with a solid state pre-amp.

I don't think they make the speakers sound like the box needs more stuffing. My advice, listen to a good tube amp and some good speakers. I think that may be more instructive than looking at curves on charts.

Any of you are welcome to come over to my place. I'll cook for you and you can listen to the incredible magic of tube preamplification and amplification driving some incredible speakers.

I would describe the sound as more 'live,' more present, more pleasing. The combination of tubes and vinyl played on a good rig is ... well, magic x n, where n is a whole number >1 and "magic" is undefinable, but wonderful.

Interesting stuff. Might be a consideration. It’s really neat that the sound can be manipulated and filtered through the gear in so many ways. Very subjective as to taste as well when you get right down to it. And then add the fact that different tubes produce different quality’s as well….it’s al most infinite the combos you could have.

That’s why it’s so hard to choose gear!

Agree 2x6, just listening would be the best way. Seems I might need to build up a few different rigs over the coming years.

The more the better Mr. Kodiak!!

2x6, I’m thinking maybe a tube powered system for my bedroom now……the Reisong actually gets great reviews as you said. Maybe match the reisong up with some m2v4?

I can see many systems happening in this house, so many places to have music going.

The M2s are great, so are the M3s pair either with a little 8" sub and you will be very happy!

I totally agree on that. The amount I’ve heard Mojo raving about the M2’s disappearing act ive just gotta try it out.

He should get a commission for indirect sales! I love the enthusiasm.

Kodiak, for that application, I recommend M3s over M2s. The M3s will sound better with a tube amp. For relaxing, they are "better" than the M2s. Some say they are also more full range because they go lower but frankly, that depends on your room.

The bass in my living room for example, sounded much better out of M2 bookshelves and OW than M3 bookshelves. I had a hell of a time controlling the M3 bass. In the basement, the bass was sublime over the M3s compared to the M2s but with a sub, the M2s won. I'd have to say though, even if the sub was taken away, I'd prefer to live with the M2s over the M3s for my basement usage.

For chilling, the M50v4 and M3v4 are terrific. I can listen to them all day long. Some have upgraded to M5 or M60 because they want more detailed mids and I can understand that. But that in no way makes them bad. It is just a different listening experience.

I tried the M2's because of Mojo (having a pair of M22's also helped with the decision). I'm a fan especially if mixed with an EP500. The M2/EP500 combo is now the main speaker setup in the family room (mainly because the wife likes the size better). The M22's are now in the master bedroom. Both are awesome.

The M2s sound similarly good with 125s, 600s, 800s, KEF subs, Sony subs, Yammie subs, SVS subs, Mirage subs.