I did a little experiment a few years ago....I set up a pair of Klipsch KG 1.5 in my main set up. 40 watts of Quicksilver EL34 goodness and they sounded great. This bolstered my believe that even modest speakers sound better, maybe too good to believe with quality electronics. The 15 watt Technics receiver did an OK job but with those amps and my CJ pre they sounded better than a little speaker has a right to. Shortly after that I picked up a pair of Heresy III to replace the Revel 106 I was using . Used them about 4 years and bought Forte IV... I went in the other direction but I would definitely stick with the Cary , that was one of the best amps they made . Good small speakers can sound good with a great amp
Bookshelf speakers with a tube amp?
Hi.
I just sold my Klipsch Fortes. I have a Cary Rocket 88 (40 WPC). I’m now pairing it with Boston RC8 speakers (25-125 W). So far, I’m pleased, because I have a wonderful SVS Micro 3000 sub. (500 W)
I have an option to grab Solid State amps: Marantz 2226 B (26 WPC) or a Pioneer Sx-7 (60 WPC)… I wonder about whether I should see or HEAR enough credible difference, either gained or lost, if I switch to solid state from the Cary. I was surprised at what I heard in clarity and midrange in these little Thrift Store Boston RC8’s. But my question lies in the tube distortion sound, vs. solid state power. I think I’ve heard it said that tube watt ratings, though lower, play with power ABOVE rated WPC. Right now, I like the Triode mode in the Cary, at (26 WPC)… better sound than UL, yet less power. Klipsch Forte are 95 db sensitivity, really MADE for tube one would imagine, yet I guess if the Bostons play without distortion (off the Cary), then is it more of a strain on the Cary to play it closer to full blast… to run bookshelf speakers needing more power?
what thoughts are appreciated…