2. amps-preamps
  3. 1066088820

Its time to try a tube amp...

Hi,

I have a question which may sound weird for some of you guys but here goes: I have a 2 channel / HT setup (Jmlab Electra 926, CC30 and 905; Integra Research RDC 7; EC EMC1; Elektra Reference 6 channel amp; Toshiba SD 9200; Transparent and MIT cables) which I use for both music and HT and I am very happy with (all bought on audiogon with some great advice). However, since my speakers are supposed to be very efficient I want to try tubes (which I have never used and know very little about…). I have listed to a very expensive tube amp once (with Mezzo Utopia) and just loved it and its time to give tubes a try…. So – my questions are as follows:

1. Is there a way to integrate two amps (the multi channel Elektra and a new tube amp) into one setup without having to change connections every time? (i.e., I want to be able to use the tube amp for 2 channels and the multi channel SS for DVD-A and movies). Will a tube amp work well with a digital processor such as the Integra? (which is great for 2 channels to me, but I am no expert).

2. If there is, any recommendations for a nice “beginner” tube amp that would go well with my setup (price range is about 1K)? I listen mostly to jazz and vocals.

I would be happy to receive any input. Thanks in advance for any input or comments.

Regards,

Raanan
raananlerner
raananlerner OP
15 posts
 
Wow...no ideas whatsoever? Does this mean this cannot be done?
pmwoodward
94 posts
 
Hello Raanan,

I am also a bit surprised that you have not gotten any feedback. After reading your post, I am not quite sure what you are hoping to do. Although I am far from the ultimate expert, you should be able to use the preamp outputs for use with a 2 channel tube amp. Always a factor is to match the output levels when using 2 amps. Also a factor is the fact that the amps may sound too different to match well. Many use a SS amp for the sub and tubes for the uppers. This is an approach that works well for many but, I gather that you are trying to do something else. I currently own a Decware tube amp and am very pleased. Efficeincy over 92db is required with them as a general guideline. If you have the option, try to borrow a tube amp first to see if it is to your liking.

good luck, Paul
gazho
4 posts
 
Raanan,

I have an Outlaw 1050 processor and have been using an older Carver to drive the mains, JM Lab Cobalt 816's, for some time. You can indeed run a seperate two channel amp using your pre amp outs on your processor. I am replacing the Carver with a Jolida JD 202A with a Parts Connexion mod. I got the amp from Walter at Underwoodhifi.com, simply a great guy to do business with and highly regarded here on AudiogoN. Sounds like the amp is in your budget too, $1040.00. Check it out, it's a great little tube amp. Here's a link to an online review of this amp.

http://www.audiorevolution.com/equip/index.html

Good luck,

Dave
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