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Best Tube Based Options For B&W 803S Speakers

Thinking about taking the plunge into the tube arena to soften up the highs in my 803S speakers. I currently have an Anthem AVM30 using Genelec speakers in a 5.1 theatre system as well as an Anthem A2 pushing the 803S for 2 channel. I will be upgrading to a 7.1 processor at some point possibly the Marantz 8801 and considering an upgrade to the Oppo 105 as well.

My immediate concern is what would make the most sense and be cost effective in terms of trying out some tube equipment for a 2 channel rig. Perhaps keep the A2 and try a tube preamp, or sell it and try an integrated tube amp. Maybe try some type of tube based CD player using the analog bypass in the theatre processor. My budget is around $2,500 used and I am looking for something easy to maintain.

Comments are much appreciated thanks.

bullitt731

Showing 6 responses by zd542

zd542
5,339 posts
 
I had the 802's and had the same problem with the highs. The best way to fix the it is to get different speakers. If you really are set on throwing money at the problem, I got best results with a Rowland 112. I tried many different amps, both tube and SS, and the Rowland softened up the highs better than anything else. But I still say get different speakers.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Tubes will work on your speakers. You just need to make sure you get one with enough power. Here's a few amps that may work well for you.

Quicksilver V4's
ARC VT100
Conrad Johnson Premier 12's
VAC PA 100
Sonic Frontiers Power 3
Rogue Stereo 100
Cary V12
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I forget exactly what the retail is on the amps I listed, but you should be able to find some of them for around $2500 used. Most likely the ARC, VAC and the Rogue.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"Thinking about taking the plunge into the tube arena to soften up the highs in my 803S speakers."

The only thing I would suggest is to be aware that you have 2 different goals here. One goal is to try tube gear, and the other is to fix the highs on your B&W's. While you may get lucky, I wouldn't expect a move to tubes to fix the issue with the speakers. Those 2 goals should be dealt with separately.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"But mine are the older Matrix 803 which is totally different. Those are not known for needing highs softened..."

That's the first time I've ever a statement like that. If I had to come up with 1 word to describe the ones I had, it would be icepick.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"07-27-14: Abrew19
Matrix 800 series tweeters were the best around at the time. The 801s and 800 were Stereophile Class A regulars and the 805 was up there too for a long time. Methinks you have something different about your ears ..."

I don't know how you come up with those tweeters being the best available at the time. That's another one I've never heard from anyone. Its possible that your hearing may be rolled off a bit, and/or have some wax buildup. I know a few people like this. They just don't hear the sibilance/harshness that most people hear. As far as Stereophile goes, I think you'll get a better sounding system doing just the opposite of what they say.
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