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MOST tubelike solid state amp

Sorry for another "most" thread.

I am rebuilding a system from scratch and desperately wish I could find a truly tubelike ss amp. I am particularly sensitive to "excessive detail," but had hoped I could get away from some of the challenges of tube gear to take advantage of the many strengths of ss....

My speakers love high current, as will their replacement pair (Avalons- Opus now, Eidolon some day). Front end is digital now (ML390s). I have listened to many of the usual suspects- levinson (336 and 33H), Pass (a couple from the X series, but not the biggest ones), Classe Omega, Plinius... but now find myself contemplating a VTL MB 450 or MB750.

Are there any other SS amps which tube lovers find wonderful too? What about YBA, Goldmund, Spectral, Rowland? I haven't heard these yet, but feel the pull of tubes getting stronger with every fatiguing moment...

Your opinions are much appreciated
jwaugh
viggen
838 posts
 
I heard Llanos is pretty good?
jwaugh OP
103 posts
 
Thanks again for all of the great suggestions. I knew I could count on Audiogon readers to think of a lot of great combinations I had missed. I have started listening already...

It looks like I will have to work hard to audition the LAMMs, since there appear to be no local (even remotely local) dealers, but it sounds like it might be worth the work.

Thanks to all...
pcanard
2 posts
 
I own a C-J MF-2250 and drive it with the EV-1 and PV-14L. The MF-2250 preserves the tubelike sound without tube amp hassles. C-J specifically designed to work that way. It's the solid state amp for tube preamps. It runs cool as a cucumber and should last for several decades of constant use. Spearit Sound is offering a special for $1295 new-in-box with full warranty.
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