Well its been awhile. Ordered a pair for evaluation finally. Just too many other things going on. Parts are coming in. Hopefully within two weeks it will be ready for prime time. The only change to the original [ option] will be Deuland Cast output coupling caps.
After hearing Joe's modded Spectron it moved me to act. As good as the Arion sounded when first heard it was not through my speakers. The Spectron did not sound like SS or tubes. Since I was unfamiliar with Joe's system it was hard to tell if it was any particular component. Synergy was very good. Nervosa edging in. Since my experience with both amps was positive , make the move.
It would be interesting to compare a hybrid design to the Spectron.
Being an SET type of guy this is new territory for me. As good as the Cyber 211s sound with the Pipes I oftened wondered about how having more juice would sound. 500W per channel just may handle all those drivers better. At 94db one would think not, however there is a lot of mass with [ 9] mid/bass drivers and[ 24] tweeters.
When shown originally the Pipes were driven by Melos amps. I believe 200W per ch. The designer Lee Porzilli did state they perform better with more juice. What does he know.
When we used the AR 250 with 240W per side the Pipes sounded fuller and more dynamic . However tube rush city. The cost of new tubes [ 32] killed the decision. I mean [ 20 ]6550s alone oh my. Some day when flush new tubes will be had.
With the Qol inserted now the RCA 211s in the amp just may be too colored towards the lush side. Just exposes every darn thing. Changed the output tubes to GE 211s and it made a difference for the good. Not as lush however still rich in character. With more dynamic impact. The jury is still out with the treble region.
The tube change as well as Joe's Spectron got the Nervosa up again. Yeah I'm done HA !! *&^)$# you know what I said.
Time will tell.
charles