I've always had a bunch of components lying around as I've upgraded my systems. Mostly I like to use classic components, especially if major updates are available. I started with the ST-120 when I discovered Update My Dynaco in the back of Stereophile. As more upgrades became available, I modified my old PAT-5. I added the Wharfedales and thought things sounded pretty damn good. Through pure luck, I managed to obtain one of the last Oppo Blu-Ray players and discovered it would play Hi-Rez files via USB sticks, as well as stream music from my computer via Audirvana.
A friend listened to the system while we were playing some reggae, and commented I really needed a subwoofer for that kind of music. I realized I had all I needed to do this, some old AR-3a's, unlinked so I could use the woofers, and old Heathkit crossover, and a couple MOSFET modules to power the subwoofers. Since the PAT-5 has two preamp outputs, I run one direct to the ST-120 amps and to the Wharfedales. The second line output of the PAT-5 goes to the Heathkit crossover and then to a couple BK MF100 MOSFET modules (I've had for years and decided to install in a nice rack mount case) powering the ARs.
Pretty cool, if I say so myself. I'm enjoying CDs like never before as well as Hi-Rez file downloads.
So very nice to see these classic SS components. Solid-stated Dynaco and AR3a got much of the praises in the day. I started my HI-fi journey w/ a Dynaco SCA-80 kit integrated amp in 1970.
