CFGamescape
500+ Head-Fier
Nice assessment. I agree, so far, the Classics in the input strike the right balance in combination with other, more revealing op amps (I prefer the SS2950 over the V7 Vivid). I also agree that the volume stage doesn't really do anything in terms of imparting any of its pleasing characteristics, although I did find the Classics to work okay there when combined with the SS2950 in the voltage and V7 Vivid in the input.Some conclusions after properly testing the 4 Vivid/2 Classic mix:
-They did level out to more neutral as they burned in more. And the characteristics of the Vivids became dominant over the Classics which acted like nice seasoning/spice overall, like others said. The Classics did not impose excessive warmth or thickness in this combo ratio.
-Classics in Voltage Gain smooth out edges nicely but cut a good amount of the big stage height that I was used to my Gustard R26 providing. They also pushed the stage very deep so it sounded like you were watching a movie far back in a longer theatre and the height of the screen cut off to letterbox.
-Classics in Volume make the Vivids do most of the talking. The staging and layering while nicely open and wide, is flatter so the lead is on par with the background and the V-shape and loss of richness is apparent.
-Classics in Input is the goldilocks choice, just right. Great amount of air, separation, trailing tones, resolution, attack and dynamics while refining edges. The forward presence of the lead vocals/instruments enhances texture and depth very nicely and accurately. This is my favorite feature overall. You are clearly more immersed and invested in the music.
Overall a worthy upgrade to refine the Soloist in the direction of totl amps. Not as a dramatic wow effect as HQPlayer upsampling, but provides a higher foundation to all round performance.
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