2. amps-preamps
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Amps for Klipschorn speakers

I am in the market for a tube power amp and pre amp to use with my 1980s Klipschorn speakers. I will be using a turntable as well as a CD player. I am a musician and have a studio that is good size where this stereo will be located. I like to sometimes play fairly loud although what I am really looking for is quality of sound on this system. For a budget maybe $3-$5000 on each piece. Used amps are fine with me. I listen to rock, blues, pop, etc. Right now, I have an old 70s Marantz 250 power amp with a Marantz 3300 pre amp hooked up to the Klips. I am a musician and not an audiophile so I know very little about good stereo equipment but I want to take a big step up in sonic quality. I appreciate the help as I am ready to acquire the amps. Thanks...
wemfan

Showing 3 responses by markpao

markpao
524 posts
 
As a former owner of the Khorns for some 23 years, I can say that I have listened to them with several amps. Those who say SS is not a good choice are spot on. IMO, vintage type low wattage tube amps are the way to go. A few amps I owned that sounded fabulous with these speakers were;

Baldwin -converted organ amp by Will Vincent. 25 wpc
Custom made OTL 6wpc (made in Italy by Mario Patrizio-unbelievable bass!)
Art Audio PX25 6wpc (midrange magic)

A few that I didn't care for were;

Audio Research Classic 60 (too bright and fatiguing)
Cary 808 Rocket 88 (no bass or dynamics-boring)
Cary CAD-300se (as above)

A couple that I never heard, but read from others that sound good with the Khorns;

McIntosh MC225 or MC240
Quicksilver Horn Monos

My opinions are based on listening to mostly classic rock music.

Lastly, you might want to go over to the Klipsch forums where you will read about anything you'll ever want to know.
markpao
524 posts
 
Check out this amp over at Audio Asylum

[http://www.AudioAsylumTrader.com/ca/listing/Amplifier-Tube/12W-EL34-SET/Stereo-Integrated-Tube-Amplifier/UPGRADED-Components/68136]
markpao
524 posts
 
12 wpc SET. Your Khorns should sing with it. I know you were inquiring about separates, and this is an integrated, but for the price how can you go wrong? It has 2 inputs, one for your turntable and one for your CD player. If it doesn't work out you could always get your separates and keep this as a spare in case an amp or pre amp ever goes in for repair. Or you could re sell it and probably not loose any $$.

*I have no affiliation with the seller of that amp*
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