I have a Stax 717 and a KGSSHV Carbon and I am interested in getting a KGST and trying to get a bead on it's sound.
I have become increasingly sensitive to the 009, and why I still love it, I am starting to become sensitive to it's treble. Tried the 009S and found them a bit too dark for my liking, though they were fatigue free.
The Carbon is almost too good with my 009. It's a bass monster, though controlled - and dynamics are fantastic. Unfortunately, I believe this is what could be causing the fatigue. I listen to it compared to my 717, and the 717 is a touch warmer, but the tone of the 009 - for the most part - remains true which is the most important thing to me. Dynamics are reduced, as is bass heft - but it allows me to enjoy the 009 for longer; the tone is really the most important thing for me.
I'm considering a KGST and trying to get a bead on it's sound. If anyone has tried an 009 with the KGST and these two amps - can you give me an understanding of the differences?
My ultimate goal is to be able to listen to the 009 with any DAC I want - as the 009 can be so dramatically different with different DACs. Retaining the tone I hear with both amps mentioned, and reducing listening fatigue is most important to me. Is the KGST closer to the 717, the Carbon, or something else entirely? Do you believe it will accomplish my goal of a less fatiguing 009, regardless of DAC?
In terms of DACs, I like the Auralic Vega with my 009 better than the Yggdrasil. I had a Dave on loan - and ultimately want to put that in the chain, which I believe is not quite as bright as the Vega.