2. amps-preamps
  3. 1092948610

Moving from SS to tube system

Could someone recommend a pair of monoblock tube? I need to upgrade my system to get better soundstage. I allocate my system budget of about 2000 for a pair of pre-owned monoblock tube. I don't really need monoblock but I though might as well going with something for the long run.

The following are advertised on Audiogon that I am considering:

Rogue Magnum M120 (I heard they can be noisy and hot)
Quad II - Forty amp (A little low in power)
Audio Research Classic M100 (Age could be a problem)
VTL Delux 140 (Age)

These are just a few. I need decent power with at least 60W or more since I am also looking to purchase a full range pair of speakers.
lvb
rello
311 posts
 
I would second the BAT. I have had great success with the Rogues. They are NOT noisy but will run hot.
lvb OP
4 posts
 
I don't know what speakers I have in mind yet but I will be spending around 3k and would consider used.

For about 5k, what would you recommend as a tube amp + speaker combo? I need something that will give me a nice soundstage.

Thanks.
lvb OP
4 posts
 
MattyBumpkin and Jond: I heard the Cary (which is parent of AES) tends to be "dull" or very soft on the treble which is kind of a turn off for me.
Is it true?
onemug
784 posts
 
Question for Ken (Triodeuser). I'm trying out a small single ended amp with a 93db Fostex based speaker. There IS something magic about the combo, especially in the midrange with voices and acoustic stuff. The amp is a SEP not SET. Do you think there's much difference? I'd welcome anybody else's opinions also. Thanks
mattybumpkin
590 posts
 
The Six Pac's, with the stock EL34's, does have more of a focus on the midrange as compared to frequency extremes. However, I would not say it is the amp but more of the nature of EL34 type tubes. With this in mind, you may wish to understand the "sound type" of various tubes used in tube amps before deciding on an amp. You should also demo a few amps before deciding, you may find that tubes are not for you.

Regards,
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