Carver MXR 130 ?

Hi everyone, I am new to the Carver world. I'm looking to purchase something vintage. I remember from the 80s this brand was pretty good. I was considering the MXR130 since its a complete unit not having to purchase a preamp & tuner and it has low .05 thd.

Is this a good starting point? Am I wrong in thinking that the separate power amps have higher THD? I havent read anything mentioning it but the distortion seems high on some models.

Opinions welcome, I am trying to learn.

Thanks in advance.


My current system is an 80s Technics with Polk 5B speakers, and a NAD cd.

WELCOME!!!!!!... ...

Am I wrong in thinking that the separate power amps have higher THD?

...YES

Please provide some insight, I look at the THD of the 130 and its .05, the power amps are around .15. I thought humans can detect anything over .07. I really like the separate amps and tuner, so please convince me.
Thanks.

First off, welcome to the forum. I would advise not relying totally on the spec's when it comes to any gear. Spec's, measurements and numbers mean absolutely nothing when it comes to the end result of what hits your ears.

Please provide some insight, I look at the THD of the 130 and its .05, the power amps are around .15. I thought humans can detect anything over .07. I really like the separate amps and tuner, so please convince me.
Thanks.

Welcome. I am new here too, but not too new to know that these guys can pretty much respond with one word and that's convincing enough for me. Only exception is when they start debating, making your head spin - but if you want information - browse and stay tuned - you will definitely get information.

Pretty certain you'd be hard pressed to even hear .7%.....

Since most speakers distort an order of MAGNITUDE more than an amp, I recommend the separates. The Sunfire amps have THD specs higher than many, but you'd be amazed at how much better they can sound thsn your average receiver....

Pretty certain you'd be hard pressed to even hear .7%.....

NO DOUBT!!!

Welcome!! As a general rule, I believe .5% THD and under is considered "audiophile" quality but like Treitz has pointed out, numbers don't begin to tell the whole story. Some times distortion is a good thing, gives it a little "flavor" if you will. Good luck and happy holidays!

Weird, I had to check the posts on another computer with google, my computer doesnt show the whole thing. Maybe its overkill, I dont know.

Any recommendations on a particular model thats fairly easy to find, reliable and decent power. I am partial to the silver look with handles on the sides.

Thanks for the tips so far.

I like the M-1.5t personally and the M-4.0t. The M-1.5t has a swe-et sound and the m-4.0t has tons of power, both are great amps. Amps of this age will most likely need service soon, if they haven't been serviced already, just something to consider when buying an almost 30 year old amp. There are service centers around but it will typically run you about $300 or so to have them gone through.

I like the M-1.5t personally and the M-4.0t. The M-1.5t has a swe-et sound and the m-4.0t has tons of power, both are great amps. Amps of this age will most likely need service soon, if they haven't been serviced already, just something to consider when buying an almost 30 year old amp. There are service centers around but it will typically run you about $300 or so to have them gone through.

I do like my M1.5 as well....