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Best SET power amp below $5,000

Curious to get the benefit of the knowledge in this forum.

I currently have a low power SET amp, paired with 94db loudspeakers. Sounds great, but tbh, I bought it 20 years ago, and even then, my process was not particularly thoughtful.

Not trying to start an argument about push-pull vs SET. Though I am not an electrician or sound engineer, my instinct is that a simpler circuit is better. At this point, I am just interested in what folks here think are the best options for SET amps—in the $5,000 price range. I am also open to the feedback that the price range is too limiting.

I am open to new or used and given the many years that vacuum tubes have been used for this purpose, curious if there is any technology advantage in newer products, holding their condition constant (ie comparing a 1950s era SET amp to a 2022 design, both in mint condition).

 

saulh

Showing 1 response by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

I owned an Almarro 318B that was  very well balanced sounding SET and could drive many mainstream speakers.It had a moderate amount of negative feedback to assist in that regard.I had a variable negative feedback control installed and that really helped on certain speakers.I mostly preferred it with a bit less feedback but never with zero.

This is a perfect example for why with regard to High End audio it will forever be, YMMV and  “horses for courses”.  It can’t be any other way because by default it is purely subjective (Which is good, no absolutes etched in stone). I have a different opinion, I believe that the less NFB , the more natural the sound quality. So for me a zero NFB well implemented amplifier will sound better.

I concede that it limits choice of speakers, thus less flexibility, a trade off I readily accept. No doubt others will prefer differently, as would be expected given the innate subjective nature of it all. Zero NFB amplifier matched with a compatible speaker will provide truly superb and natural/authentic sound. It just depends on what one is seeking. No right or wrong.

Charles

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