2. amps-preamps
  3. 180907-171779

Recommend a good tube power amp in the 100 wpc range for under $4k

Folks, 

 I am looking to bi-amp my Fyne F702 speakers, with a solid state amp for the low end and a tube amp for the mods and highs.  The Fynes are floor standing 2.5 way units with 93 db sensitivity and 100 wpc rms power handling capacity.  My preamp is a Rogue Audio RP-7, and my current solid state power amp is a Benchmark AHB2 at 100 wpc.  My goal is not so much more power but to put a tube amp on the middle and highs.  The Fynes have two sets of binding posts, one for lower frequencies and one for mids and highs.  I am looking to go active bi-amping with a Sublime Acoustic K231 Stereo 3-Way Active Crossover.

  In addition to an amplifier recommendation, what else do I need to consider?  For example, if I buy an amplifier with wattage output similar to the AHB2, what other factors do I need to consider?  Because I do NOT want to modify the speakers in any way, do I need to consider a gain control to match level differences resulting from other factors, such as impedance differences? Or, can I just hook up the crossover between the preamp and the two power amps and enjoy the music, which is what it is really all about anyhow?

 

Many thanks for any and all comments.

mike4597

Showing 1 response by spenav

spenav
416 posts
 

@mike4597 

The Fynes have two sets of binding posts, one for lower frequencies and one for mids and highs.

jperry is correct, two amps at 100wpc will not necessarily play at the same level unless the gains are also matched. You need to be able to control the gain of one of the amps to match the level of the other one. The two sets of binding posts on your speakers are not only for bi-amping but also for bi-wiring. The passive network is still connected to both drivers: low and high. To do bi-amping properly, you will need to disconnect at least the low frequency drivers from the passive crossover network. Since you are not ready to modify your speakers, you will not be able to enjoy the full benefits of bi-amping. You have all the necessary equipment. As your knowledge increases you can tackle the full mod later. Be advised, the difference will not be subtle. 

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