Okay, so I would agree with everyones perception of tube amps. I have a Rogue Cronus Magnum, source is Audiolab 8200cdq (32 bit) and Harbeth C7es3 's. I love my speakers and I want more power /current for tighter bass control and I want another integrated. I might get back into vinyl after 28 years without my Technics TT. Any suggestions? My thought has been Luxman SS but id like a couple of tube suggestions as well. The Rogue is not all that tubey to me. I like the Rogue and would probably keep it. Room is 12x18 and I listen to Melody Gardot, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Miles Davis and Talking Heads.
SS amp as opposed to tube amp
I'm writing this primarily for "newbies". I have both sets, tube pre and SS amp in bed room; tube pre and tube amp in the listening room.
Recently, I've been doing critical "unbiased" listening. Before, I was listening with bias towards the tube amp. I just installed "NOS" tubes in the pre with the SS amp, and I can hear every nuance those fantastic tubes are delivering.
While there is no way I would ever have a SS pre, I'm not at all sure about the differences between a transparent SS amp, and tube pre.
Someone has already mentioned the cost of retubing. If that's a factor, I vote for the SS amp; also tube amps kick out as much heat as a fireplace, definitely not for the bed room.
Since I'm the kind of audiophile who wants the best sound possible, even if it's imaginary, I'll stick with a tube amp for the listening room.
In conclusion, tube amp or SS amp is almost a toss up with this audiophile.