In my book, it is a resounding YES (Rag + HE-6, that is).

In my book, it is a resounding YES (Rag + HE-6, that is).

Sounds encouraging. Did you formerly have a reference HE6 setup that the Rag contends with? I find the HE6 generally breeds dissatisfaction and a pain to get right, but quite good when the elements are in place.

Right!  But notice how neutral is assumed to measure flat (in our subconscious) and natural is assumed to not measure flat.  As you know both the Dynahi and Rag measure flat as do most non-broken tube and SS amps.

Agree with Marv on the engagement factor on how the Rag approaches SE tube amps.

Very true, I still need more time with the Rag and I need to do more listening with the Theta. I've been having trouble with one of the regulators so it is in need of servicing. Most of my impressions with the Theta are through my speakers which definitely are not as detailed as the HD800. Will report back and reassess.

I don't suppose you heard the Rag with the HE6 (you mentioned the Slant as your only remaining planar)? I love my Dynahi to pieces, as it's the only amp (of what I own) that can shake the LCD-3's into a fun, yet technically able headphone. However, I would love to consolidate and get rid of the Odyssey Stratos + CSP2 > HE6 setup. Feel the Rag is up to driving both the LCD's and HE6, so that little is left wanted? I would jump at the chance to kill three birds with one stone.

I have a pair of LCD-3 and HE-6 (stock) on loan right now. Both are very good with both amps. If your HE-6 is stock like this one, the Rag is a better match. I think I remember you saying you like a smoother, richer presentation - if that is the case definitely consider the Rag. The Dynahi has more grunt, reminiscent of a good speaker amp but it doesn't have the resolving power nor the slight warmth that the Rag has. Both are good, but for sake of simplicity I would give the nod to the Ragnarok for sure.

Do you feel the "engagement" factor is because the Rag is better able to render and distinguish tiny volume shifts, and do so in a faster, more authoritative, more instantaneous way? That is to "really dig in"? I hope I'm making sense. In essence what I mean by "microdynamics".

This aspect was where I found the Rag very similar to good* tube amps.

Also, how does Susy compare vs. the Klone? I like the Klone quite a bit as well.


*Leben, Little Dot, and many other cheap Chinese tube amps need not apply.

Sorry missed this - From memory the Krell fairs pretty well in comparison. The Klone is leaner and lighter in presentation compared to the meatier, harder hitting Dynahi. Resolving power is actually very similar. I'd give the slight nod to the Dynahi in terms of staging.. slightly wider and more precise. Klone can also be a bit compressed sounding compared to the Dynahi which I feel has some of the best macrodynamics I've heard from an SS amp.

Overall though, the differences are smaller than the price would indicate. On a strict budget the Klone is a killer amp. If one doesn't care much for a fancy chassis, it can easily be built for under $1K with a nice pot. Price/performance the Klone wins, very underrated amp... understandably so considering its DIY.

TKD.. What is your reference for SS amps with excellent macrodynamics? Laid-back is definitely not how I would describe this Dynahi.