Can tube amps play loudly?


Hello Gentlemen,

I'm in process of upgrading my current system. It's all junk...Onkyo receiver, Wharfedale speakers, etc. I've finally finished grad school and have decided it's high-time to upgrade to a quality two-channel system.

I've heard tube amps in various settings and love the way they sound. I'm strongly considering starting with one of the modified Cayins on the market (Bizzy Bee or PrimaLuna versions).

I’ll preface my question by noting that I am a total tube “newbie,” and I’m sure my question will speak volumes about my relative youthfulness. Here goes: Can tube amplifiers in this modest price range play loudly?

I realize this is dependent on the speakers and their sensitivities. What I'm looking for here is a relative ballpark estimate. There are so many good speakers on the market that I don't even know what to start looking at seriously. If I could weed some out based on their sensitivities, that would help me out a lot.

So, does anyone have any rough decibel ratings for tube amps similar to the Cayin? If so, what sensitivity are your speakers? I do realize that decibel ratings vary widely depending on amp power, speaker type, distance, etc. All I want is a rough estimate.

Any thoughts from anyone would be appreciated. I’d like to be able to narrow down my speaker choices before I start shopping seriously, because I don’t want to waste my time or a dealer’s. Plus, I’d like to know whether I can even achieve respectable volumes with tube amps on my modest budget.

Thanks!
-Chris
cds9000

Showing 1 response by tomryan

Audio Research makes (made) a good integrated with remote control which you should be able to find used for your price without a problem. It's a damn good match with ProAc Response series speakers which, if you're real lucky, you might find a pair of 2.5s for $2,000.00. I once heard a Manley Stingray integrated sound nice with Coincident floor standing speakers.

But to answer your question (even though most everyone else already did), yes - you can find a tube integrated which will play your speakers as loud as you want. I've been doing same for 20 years. Actually had a Mesa Baron which in pentode (although a bit sterile sounding) will blast music and can "rock a party". However, with the right speakers they can do this in triode for a much smoother, more natural sound. The Baron can be listened to in full pentode, 2/3pent-1/3tri, 1/3pent-2/3tri or full triode. They are actually two mono amps on one chassis but you'll need a pre-amp (or even a used Creek remote volume control for $150.00 if damn nice).