2. amps-preamps
  3. 166972-154522

Beginner looking for guidance into tube sound.

Hello all, I am looking for some input on the best way to add tubes to my current mess. I currently have what I am sure everyone here would consider barely a step up from my parents zenith HI-FI circa 1977. please keep in mind I am lucky if I can afford to look in the window of an actual audio store. 
I currently have a Peachtree nova 300 and a Marantz CD player and a pair of monitor audio silver 500 speakers. A friend gave me a blue sound node 2i also. I have always wanted a tube powered amp. I see these Chinese amps like the Muzishare X7 and Willsenton R8 that have lots of great reviews. Or maybe a tube DAC. Then I see the Black Ice for ss-x. Each having less tubes respectively. Not sure how much that matters but I would think the more tubes the more tube sound one could expect. I would like to be in the $1000. range but would go to $1500 if I had to. My goal is to find the best most cost effective way to enter the tube world.  
johnfritter

Showing 3 responses by oldhvymec

oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
You want to see if you like valves? Get a tube buffer and get a good one.. pretty simple.

Decware makes a great one and there are a FEW others that work really well.

An option for A/B and easy to turn it on or off.. Just depends on your mood and the playback source ay?

Second option is go forward with a tube preamp to SS power amps FIRST..

You don't get the full effects of tube harmonics but it is a GOOD taste of it.. Then tubes for the monitor section of you system and SS for the bass.. It's always better. 50 years of messing around.. Tubes for mids and highs and SS for the bass.. ALL of it.. 300hz and above Valves.. below SS.

Regards
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
noromance5,770 posts05-24-2021 9:28pmUsed pair of Quicksilver monoblocs here.
Use the pre out on your Peachtree.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisaa875-quicksilver-mid-mono-tube
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

THIS is a good deal.  Pay attention OP.. Very good start and to tell the truth end with.. Flexible well made amps.. A lot of wiggle room for sound change..

Regards
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Add a Fraya + you’ll get a full blown taste of tubes, 2K or so..

What you think guys.. a long with the Quicksilver MBs.

I have a pair of Cary SixPacs all dolled up. Efficient speakers and a GREAT preamp, look out. EL34 voiced BUT they will run all the valves 6V6, 6L6, EL34, KT 66, 77, 88. 1-2k depends on the goodies..

SixPac/C20. World class old school sonics. Samra C20.. World class

Oh poo OP, he won't ship? I just saw your post.

Look for a pair of SixPacs, too..  I've seen them at 1200.00 and fresh built too. I picked up mine for 1300, just redone by Cary.. Copper foils, hexfred and new filter caps.. 20 more years..

Regards..
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