Recommendation Request for Tube Power Amplifier
I have been using an all solid state system for many years. I hear so much about the "tube sound" experience. I'd like to check it out.The only experience with tube amps that I have comes from these two amps...
One is the Paragon System E Tube Preamp with phono. I bought this new about 1980. It uses six 12ax7 type tubes. I used it quite heavily for a few years. When it developed problems with the volume control, I replaced it with something I can't remember. In storage for a few decades, I pulled it out six months ago, cleaned all contacts, especially the volume pot. Still works!. I have measured this guy quite thoroughly. Phono gain is 43 dB. Distortion from Tape Out is below the noise floor at -95dB. Noise at 60 Hz and multiples is -60dB or better below 0dB recorded level.. Great numbers, even compared to modern preamps. I replaced the old 12AX7 tubes with six matched Genelex Gold Lion tubes. I'm using this now as a phono preamp with the Koetsu RS and a step up transformer at 20x (Cinemag 1254). The table is a brand new Technics SL-1200G. I really like this sound.
But I'd like to try tube amplification again without spending a fortune.
What tube power amp would be a great match for this system? Years ago, I had a CJ MV75 power amp. I liked the sound, but hated the continual tweaking of the bias, even with brand new tubes. I sold it.
My budget is $3K or less.My system is not too efficient (86 dB sensitivity Revel 105 Bookshelf speakers and a self powered HSU sub, 100Hz xover), so I probably need more than the 3 watt/ch amps I see for some of the less expensive models. How much power do I need? I'm not sure. I've never heard any problems with the Levinson No. 27 or the present Bryston 2.5B cubed, but they both put out 100 W/ch or more. Balanced inputs would be great, but not absolutely necessary.
I consider my present system to sound quite neutral. I worked very hard to get it that way. I'm very pleased with the sound.
I want to exprience that warm tube sound if only to have a change of pace. Or maybe...
Thanks for your help!
@ghdprentice Thanks. I am certainly considering used amps. I've seen a used Rogue 100 here on Audiogon that seems to fit. So far, I've seen great reviews, especially from 10 Audio. I should add that I'm thinking that this amp will be for my phono system only. I've got the Bryston for the rest.. |
@rodman99999 Thanks for the great advice. Yes, I have looked at the caps in the PSU and the unit. I normally replace all caps in a vintage audio product. I've done it for all the tuners that have come this way and lately for the two APT model preamps and a couple of turntables. I've been putting it off out of laziness. Thanks for the tip on the electros that may be in the unit. I will need to look to see if I have any. I have already noticed a difference in sound compared to the Musical Surroundings phono pre I have. Sound is smoother, flows easier it seems. But not the big, enveloping warmth that people glow about. Maybe I'll find it with the power amp. Yes, lower powered tube amps are problematical with the speakers I have. I probably need more than 50 W/ch. I sincerely appreciate the time and effort you spent on your post. |
Glad to know that there is at least one other with the Paragon E. rodman999 has a great idea. Roll tubes on the E to create more of that tube sound. I recently replaced the original Tungsol 12AX7 tubes (6), made in Hungary who knows when, but before 1980.I installed some brand new Genalex ECC83 Gold Lion tubes, all matched. Listening to these, made me realize that the Tungsol tubes are still making great sound. They are definitively warmer than the Gold Lions. Back in they went. Can you recommend another brand that would push the tube "warmth" a bit further? rodman99999 has suggested trying Mullard tubes. Have you tried this tube? The used stock costs approx $100 each. What has been your experience with tube rolling on the Paragon E?
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