2. amps-preamps
  3. 194740-98081

Integrated amp for tube lover

Downsizing and looking for an integrated amp of 100 or more watts/ channel that will satisfy a tube lover. Not many tube integrated amps fit that power requirement, but open to tube or solid state. Considering Krell K300i, CODA CSiB, Boulder 866 (doubt that it is "tube-like" enough), and Gryphon Diablo 300 (more expensive than I’d like). Can use separate phono and/or DAC. Thoughts on these or others?

hedwigstheme
kennyc
1,926 posts
 

For “warm” sounding SS, either a sliding class A bias (like the Krell) or a GanFET amp.  Limited options for integrated though

halfastro
16 posts
 

I really like my Advance Paris A-10 classic. It has a high bias switch that emulates class A up to about 10 watts per channel.  Combined with my Denafrips Ares 15th, it comes really close to a vinyl sound. 

triton20trx
27 posts
 

I have experience with Rogue Cronus Magnum and PrimaLuna EVO 400. Both are very good tube integrated amps out of the box. Put in NOS preamp tubes and they up 3-4 levels in all round performance. 

gimmer
28 posts
 

I will second @kennyc and the Allnic.  60wpc in triode and 120wpc in pentode mode.

avanti1960
1,573 posts
 

@hedwigstheme 

What qualities about a tube amp are most important to you? 

tonality?  many tube amplifiers sound neutral, many sound midrange forward, many sound rolled off at the high end, many emphasize midbass.  

sound stage?  most tube amplifiers project a large, spacious, atmospheric multi dimensional sound stage, something I have never heard in an all solid state amplifier to the extent a tube amp can project.  

refinement and clarity?  you can achieve or not achieve this with tube or solid state designs. 

dynamics?  same as above, tube or solid state amplifiers will deliver or not deliver depending on amp selected. 

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