Affordable SS that sound like Tubes

I was a 100% vinyl guy for many years. Due to maintenance cost and aggravation I switched to DSD after a lot of research and I have no regrets.

I am looking for suggestions on affordable SS that sounds as good as Tubes.

Here's the rub. My Mid Monos were less than $2,000 brand new and they sound incredible. As does my Pre that costed me less than $1,000.

Integrated suggestions are welcomed.

And I would like to hear from people that had fine tube equipment and switched to fine SS equipment.

And please, no mention of "Tubes have Higher Distortion." LOL

tonydennison08-21-2023 4:57pm

dbt Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 97 posts 08-25-2023 at 12:03pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I owned the PrimaLuna EVO 400 preamp and power amp combo and really liked it. I wanted to go back to SS gear that had a tube sound. That said, the PrimaLuna was replaced with a Luxman L509X integrated which came very close to a tube amplifier. Then, I decided to go back to separates and I currently have the Holo Audio Serene KTE preamp and a Parasound JC5 amp. The JC5 amp is a sweet sounding amp which comes close to a tube sound, but I haven’t heard a SS amp that sounded just like tubes. It may exist, but I haven’t heard one yet. I do highly recommend the Parasound JC5 amp because it’s a lot of bang for the buck. They can be found for a good price on the used market and I recommend you try to audition one if you can. The Music Room may have a few and they allow about 30 days to audition. That’s where I bought mine from. Lastly, in my experience, it’s all about system synergy. So, the preamp will play a part in what the SS amp will sound like in your setup and of course, your speakers.