A switch for 3 amps


I’m hoping for a solution:  I’m running the usual Frankenstein setup for multiple source playback, CD, streaming, and vinyl.  This hybrid system: tube preamp, SS amp, and WiFi streamer all lead to  1.7i modded Maggies (GR Research).  In the chain is a Schitt Lokius (primarily for digital only). The room is an open plan family room.  The issue is I want to add 2 mono tube amps to the system for moderate volume playback (jazz, acoustical, etc.), but I want to use the SS amp too with a switch to go back and forth from the monos to the SS for different music (prog rock and electronic).   Is this even possible?  I’ve looked and see switch’s but nothing that exactly address my setup.  The room is  20 x 30, 9’ ceiling damped by rug, and heavy fabric furniture.  And, to add to all that, the mono’s are  Quicksilver M60s which are only 60w per, but I got a great price on them and have heard others who’ve used them with 1.7 or 1.6s with good results at moderate volume.  So I want to give it try.  Thanks for your suggestions.

audiodidact

Showing 3 responses by mlsstl

I know nothing about the switching options offered, but one needs to be careful with most tube amps -- you shouldn't remove the speaker load when they are turned on but not in use. An option would be to have them switched to a suitably sized (ohms & wattage) when not connected to the speaker.

I see I made a typo in my prior post that didn't say things as clearly as intended. Don't power on a tube amp with no speaker connected, though it is acceptable if you use a suitably size resistor in place of the speaker.

@audiodidact -- concerning your question, about 18 years ago I had Maggie 1.6QR speakers that I powered with rebuilt Dynaco Mk 3 mono amps (60 watts each) and was very comfortable with the pairing.  No problem with volume, though I'm not a head banger.  I had a good sized room (approx 25' X 16') and my typical "serious listening" volume would have been 85 to 90 dB.