I second the McIntosh MA252. I have mine sitting next to a Rogue Audio tube amp because I like to go back and forth between the two and sometimes I couldn’t tell you which is which depending on the music. I switched out the input tubes with Mullards and that seems to have made the difference. The only bad part is that the McIntosh is easily punchier in the bass and dynamics so sometimes my tube amp doesn’t look so hot. Yes it’s $4500 but it has a bunch of cool features for the price and 160wpc rated drives my Maggie’s easily. I’d suggest you audition one if you can swing $4500.
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
T