2. speakers
  3. 1374951581

Revel Salon/Studio and ARC Tube Amps

Just curious about the compatibility of using an ARC tube amp to drive Revel Salon or Studio speakers. I've checked out the Revel web site. To its credit, Revel suggests using a high current/high power amp, thus permitting the inference that using a rock solid, high power SS amp is the preferred amp to use. I recall reading some data about the electrical characteristics of these speakers. As I recall they present a difficult impedance load.

Ok ... it seems like I've answered my own question, but I am curious if anyone actually tried to drive the Salons or Studios with an ARC tube amp and if so, their reactions.

I mention ARC tube amps for two reasons. First, I own an ARC tube amp and like it very much. There's also a natural synergy with the amp and the rest of my ARC gear. So, if I switch out my speakers, I want to keep the ARC gear.

Second, as I've come to better understand, most ARC tube amps use roughly 12 to 14 dbs of negative feedback which tends to make these amps to perform somewhat like a solid state amp. That is, relatively low output impedance for a tube amp and respectable output voltage regulation regardless of speaker impedance.

So for those other A'gon members who have tried this combo, I'd appreciate knowing your thoughts.

Thanks

Bruce
bifwynne

Showing 1 response by bifwynne

bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Omsed, I suspected that. Interestingly, the Revel Studios present a somewhat similar impedance plot as my Paradigm S8s (v3), with the main difference being that the S8s are touted as having an efficiency/sensitivity of 92 db. I understand the Revel's are way less efficient/sensitive.

However both share the distinction of manufacturing their own beryllium tweeters in house. I suppose the S8s are the poor mans way in through the back door, but sound terrific. I thought a 150 tube/wpc amp might do a decent job on the Revels. Maybe not. :-(
More to discover