Solid state amp that tube fan can be happy with?


For a few reasons I'd like to replace my EL34 mono blocks with a stereo SS amp producing 100-250 watts at 8 ohms.  Also with at least 40K input impedance since I'll keep my tube line stage.

No local dealers to audition candidates.

Thanks

pryso

Showing 2 responses by ddafoe

I've only owned one tube amplifier (PrimaLuna) so my tube amplifier experience is very limited.  I have generally settled though on SS amps I thought offered some of the tube like qualities I enjoyed.

The amps I've owned that I associate closest to my limited tube listening are:  Classe CA300, Modwright KWA 100SE, Pass XA30.8, AtmaSphere Class D Monos, and Coda S5.5.   Personally I think the AtmaSphere monos are the closest to the tube sound I remember (not counting the super black background and very tight bass they also provide... :)).

35.2 lb Westminster Labs REI

These class A amps do look great and from Robert Harley’s review in June their sound signature seems like something many would like. But for $33,900 per pair, they better be game changers!

If you don’t need more than 50 watts Class A, the $6400 45lb Coda S5.5 is a killer amp in my opinion as I personally find it matches the following from the said review’s conclusion (at least with my ears compared to my Pass X250.8 & XA30.8).

"If you’re looking for the classic “Class A sound” of softish bass and warm midrange textures at the expense of transparency and resolution, the WestminsterLab Rei monoblocks probably aren’t for you. But if it’s neutrality, high resolution, see-through transparency, dynamic liveliness, and outstanding bass you’re after..."