2. amps-preamps
  3. 147838-95421

Convo on SS mixed with VAC and in what order?

Hello audio gurus, I would like your thoughts on going VAC with SS pre. I've seen mentions of using a VAC amplifier with SS pre and phono pre. I'm asking because i'm in upgrade mode. After moving from mm to mc on a VPI Prime I've given away a Cary SLP98P and VTL ST150 to a friend forcing me to replace (yay!). I have Pass Labs Pre and Phono and in search of a new amp and speakers.

I will use Meadowlark Osprey speakers for a year but don't want to match these speakers with an amplifier because I will be replacing them. The question I'm seeking to answer is about amplifiers. Do I only look at SS because I already SS pre's? Or can I look at VAC amplifiers to match with SS? I like the idea of a VAC amplifier.

If I go with a SS amplifier I would think a 250.8 Pass would be a good fit before I get speakers. As I type this I'm thinking to myself that speakers first may be the better idea.


gts1brick

Showing 2 responses by monoogan

monoogan
55 posts
 
I’d say tube preamp and SS power amp but since you already have the Pass preamp I think the 250 would still be a good idea. It will be a lot easier to match the Pass to whatever speakers you decide to get in the future. You can get great sound from a tube power amp but speaker selection will be much more critical.

The Pass power amp will mate better with a larger variety of speakers and it half sounds like the best of tubes right out of the gate.
monoogan
55 posts
 
Good luck!
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