dematted

I'm in that minority as well (prefer the perf suede Universe pads with it). I found the Auteur mids to be too incisive for my tastes. Chain can make a big difference though I think.

I tried it with both the stock and OFC! I don't know why, but I find the Aeolus sound to just be more exciting and engaging. Auteur sounds a little slow and laidback in comparison.

I didn’t think Teak Auteur was the cat’s pajamas either. I’m going to give a second go with Blackwood Auteur this week. But like what you like and don’t worry about it. Amen @Riotvan

SW51+ is just that much better than the CTH, at least for me. No point in spending money on something you wouldn’t even turn on after you’ve got SW51+. If you are itching to spend money, spend on tubes for SW51+ instead. ;D

Haha, fair enough. You're probably right. Might end up buying a used CTH to tide me over till I get the SW 51+ and then selling it. As far as tubes go, what would you recommend? I haven't seen much talk about tubes for the SW51+ in the various threads about it. From all I've heard, it sounds pretty damn good with the stock tubes.

Pretty much any European tube will sound the same on the SW51, warmer and fuller. Stock tubes are still pretty good, just a touch lean. I also prefer the SW51 to the CTH, especially for Focal, but honestly CTH does a good job.

I wasn't a fan of the mids myself (sold my 4xx) glad the amp makes a difference for you.