Always good to hear your impressions on different gear available at reasonable prices. It’s also nice to have different amps in our systems to choose from on any given day. I started with an inexpensive class D that seems fine. Awaiting delivery for my first foray into tube amplification. Perhaps in a year or two I’ll have a third option of solid state class A/AB amplification. Thanks again guys.
Vilip is right about the amp. I own a A88-T Mk1 for many years and will only replace it with CS-88A because it also use EL34 and i stash a lots of vintage 6sn7 and 6sl7. There are two ways to improve the 88 in own experience. 1. Using a good preamp, in my case, I use Joule Electra LA-150. 2. Replacing the 6sn7 and 6sl7 with vintage tubes, in my case, I use 40s military 6sl7 and 60s 6sn7 and use it as int amp.
Well done guys ! I was SERIOUSLY considering the Cayin integrated amps a couple of years ago but was worried about support in the USA... Plus the lack of inputs is an issue. It is a GORGEROUS looking amp though... Definitely a better value that the much better known "cousin", !
Hi - great review. I have the Cayin A88-T Mk II Limited Edition from a few years ago. It has the same set of tubes, KT88/EL34 switching, manual biasing, UL/TR modes, etc. The only difference seems to be that the CS-88A has a Phono input instead of a third line-level input on the A88. Do you know of any other differences besides the phono input? The price of the A88T was lower if I recall correctly, but not enough to just be the phono stage - so wondering what else has been amped up. I am super happy with the A88T and agree with everything you said in this review.
I’ve to add……., Shindo Labs relies very strongly upon said stock tubes, which are usually NOS to begin with, to create a sense of balance in which I personally adore.
I have the Nola Boxer S3s. What tube amps would you recommend with it? You mentioned in this video that the Cayin CS-88A would probably match well with it. I'm just wondering if you have other suggestions as well since you carry that speaker.
hey guys, I really like the way you talk about our passion ;-) I am about to pull the trigger on the cayin cs 88. what tubes do you advice for a very "toubie" sound ? I like the warm , holographic presentation.
Yes, one more input would be great and if there isn't a headphone jack like the 55 then a tape/line out would allow you to hook up a headphone amp. Otherwise looks awesome and is definitely on the short list.
I have just bought a pair of Sonetto 3, and wanna pair them with Hegel H190. Would love to know if that’s a good fit and secondly, is Cayin 88A a pairing better? (Can’t afford to buy both)
Finaly someone tells the truth about the XLR hyped illusion when it's NOT realy balanced !!! (does more harm than good ) Real balanced is mostly pro use ....
What a MINDNUMBINGLY DUMB COMMENT!!!!!! Cool and a Good looking Dude!!! FU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I enjoy y'all's reviews. I even bought a naim nait 5si based largely on y'all's review. I am super happy I made that buy. However. I wish vilip was less of a jerk. It makes me want to listen less. Like when the guy behind the camera made a valid comment on the unit having no balanced outs. Vilip goes jerk audiophile-splaining mode. Vilip's know it all attitude is a turn off
@@ramsaybolton9099 I am just pointing out I consider unsubscribing because of his pompous air. I like how they describe gear. But the negative vibes suck
@@bolobos ok, I respect your opinion. In real life he is quite down to earth, insightful and tells it like it is, couldn’t ask for a better sales rep. I hear you tho.
@@johnanderson8096 the lack of balanced outs would be considered a shortcoming at this price point. Vilip went on a tangent and went on talking down to someone who knew everything he was saying.
