2. amps-preamps
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pass labs xa30 to valve amplifier.

hi all, i have the above amplifier direct to droplet cd player and zingali 20.6 ( i think thats model number) , chord anthem 2 xlr and epic speaker cable. no preamp as droplet has volume control.

ive been thinking of valve amps recently, but have never been able to hear one. the pass is excellent but i was wondering how a valve amp would change the sound. would a valve one have the same level of clarity and detail? i have heard valve amps offer a more laid back, spacial sound, with emphasis on soundstage? wht kind of price range should i be looking at to better the pass? any thought?
james123

Showing 3 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Pubul57,
I agree with you,simpler design(fewer parts and minimalist approach) + quaility execution/built = better sound. I once believed the more power the better(can`t have too much power school of thought). I was wrong.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
James,
The Opera Consonance tube amps are very good(built quality and sound). The very good tube amps are quite transparent and revealing also james. There`s no 'masking' of information, they just are`nt as analytical or dry sounding as 'some' SS amps tend to be.Good tube amps will preserve the 'natural' bloom and body tone that`s less clinical in nature and more organic.You`ll certainly hear the differences in your recordings however.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hello James,
Low power tube amps SET or PP can provide excellent impact,dynamics and clarity/transparency without a doubt. The key is selecting a well built and high quality tube amp(transformers,parts and stout power supply). Equally important is the right speaker match, one that`s efficient and has an easy drive load impedance. With the really good tube amplifiers you get realism,natural bloom and wonderful tone(acoustic instruments and vocals) that`s very difficult to achieve in many other types of amps IMO.Best of luck with your progression.
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