4 ohms, 85db speakers are probably not the best match for tubes. With that said I hear little difference in low level listening dynamics using either my Atma-Sphere 30w tube amp or 100w Class D amps with my QLN 8 ohm, 87.5db easy to drive speakers.
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@zlone I drive my KEF Reference 1 speakers with an old Krell KSA-80 class A amp, rated at 80-Watts into 8-Ohms, 160 into 4 and 320 into 2. The results are stunning, but I have not really compared amplifiers. The speakers were demonstrated with McIntosh but unfortunately I took little notice of the power source - the speakers were the best I have heard at any price. The KEF specs say 50 to 200 Watts. I would err on the high side! I really don't understand why the amplifier should affect low level dynamics, unless the amplifier compresses the output which surely would be at high volume? A "straight wire with gain" would leave dynamics unchanged? |
To answer some of the questions above. The speaker choice was of one of consideration of space as we moved into a new home and I lost my audio room. I’ve had these V4s for a long time and the Shindo pre combo was a match made in heaven running my Eminent Technology LFT8b panel speakers. God I miss those! But moving I had to make do with a great room and a BDI TV audio console that housed all my gear but hides the beauty of the gear, all with speakers that as she put it were not an “eye sore”. LOL. So looking into monitors and coming off satisfaction from a secondary system, Peachtree Nova300 into KEF LS50s, I went for the Reference 1 Meta. The only thing lacking is a tight base impact and maybe some high extension. The speakers are capable but my tube gear is midrange magic focused with my KT-88s. Lows and highs are good but not as good as can be had from the KEFs. So, just thought if I could have my cake and eat it too? Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I know the answer is try out on loan new amplification but it needs to be at least 100k input impedance to have a chance. |
@daytrader , @billstevenson has this right. Whatever dynamic contrast that exists in the system should come from the signal and not the amps. Some amps can 'sound' more dynamic than others but if you measure them you'll see no difference. That is because distortion can cause the ear to be fooled into the perception of dynamics. A good class D amp can sound right, like an excellent tube amp, at low volume no worries. |
Thanks Ralph. 👍
So amp typology for the most part isn’t going to matter much? Tubes vs solid state is closer than ever but still obviously not identical delivering music. I guess I’m just looking for a better full range match for my current speaker choice. While still keeping the equipment with the least amount of change. I tried the KT150s for a little more bottom end , approved by Mike Sanders, but didn’t like the frequency response. Might just have to stop here and let sleeping dogs lie. |
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