I use a tube buffer between my source and the preamp. This warms the sound, and gives it a more dynamic presentation. IMHO, tubes on the front end, with SS for the amplification give you a great balance of musicality and control.
:-)
:-)
Solid State Power Amps That Sound Most Like Tubes?
A close friend, and audio enthusiast who followed my path to tubed audio bliss has run into a situation (long story) due to which he needs to move to solid state. He has enlisted my help in putting together a list of the most likely candidates to consider.
I could use your help, expertise and experience in identifying which power amplifiers would best satisfy a former tube lover.
I've read many, many reviews, and it would seem that several of the First Watt amps (the J2) the Plinius SA 101, the Edge M8M, and certain others might work well, but honestly, I've never heard any of them, and know only what I've read. What do you recommend based on actual listening experience?
His budget is roughly $2750, give or take, and that would be considering a used purchase to maximize his purchasing power.
Part of his system mirrors mine. He is using Silverline 17.5 speakers. Which, based on personal experience can be well powered by my 18 wpc SET amp (granted my room is quite small), but tube watts are = to significantly more than solid state watts, and I'm concerned that the First Watts would be a bit light in the power category.
His musical listening tends toward rock, as well as a lot of female singers and jazz. His listening room is medium to medium large sized.
I would appreciate any help with this. I've searched a large number of threads here but most are somewhat out of date.
I could use your help, expertise and experience in identifying which power amplifiers would best satisfy a former tube lover.
I've read many, many reviews, and it would seem that several of the First Watt amps (the J2) the Plinius SA 101, the Edge M8M, and certain others might work well, but honestly, I've never heard any of them, and know only what I've read. What do you recommend based on actual listening experience?
His budget is roughly $2750, give or take, and that would be considering a used purchase to maximize his purchasing power.
Part of his system mirrors mine. He is using Silverline 17.5 speakers. Which, based on personal experience can be well powered by my 18 wpc SET amp (granted my room is quite small), but tube watts are = to significantly more than solid state watts, and I'm concerned that the First Watts would be a bit light in the power category.
His musical listening tends toward rock, as well as a lot of female singers and jazz. His listening room is medium to medium large sized.
I would appreciate any help with this. I've searched a large number of threads here but most are somewhat out of date.