2. amps-preamps
  3. 193266-117410

Integrated amp with preamp tubes

Hi All,

I'm curious with perhaps downsizing my Bryston 3B3 & VTL 2.5(tube) with a good quality Integrated amp. 

Question: Are there integrated amps with a tube pre inside ? Would that be called a "Hybrid" integrated ?

I really like the tube/Solid state combo. I like a little warmth with my music. I'm just kicking tires at the moment. I know many will say that separates are the best way to go, but still curious to do some research on quality Integrated amps.Probably looking at $4000usd(used)

Love to hear some input, thanks in advance.

bunkertoy

Showing 4 responses by inna

inna
7,839 posts
 

ghdprentice,

speaking of tube power, by the way, my VAC's 60 watt/ch in ultra linear mode sounds very powerful with my two way 89db floorstanders in 250 square feet room. In fact, you can feel the power even at low listening levels. I like this a lot too.

inna
7,839 posts
 

Tube preamp is of course very important, but if you want to fully experience tube sound you got to have tube power amp as well. I just stated the obvious, didn't I ?

 

inna
7,839 posts
 

Unless your speakers demand it - why go with solid state power amp ?

There are two VAC all tube integrated for sale here and on usaudiomart. Yeah, they are more than $4k but might be worth it.

inna
7,839 posts
 

Also, VAC sells hand selected new reissue tubes, you won't have to chase NOS ones if you don't want to. I do chase them, though.

You might want to ask the sellers the serial numbers and then talk to Kevin of VAC to see if those units were ever serviced/repaired. Better give him a call, he is very slow with emails.

More to discover