2. amps-preamps
  3. 1213285189

Thoughts on new amp

I currently have a Bryston 4B (200wpc) amp to CJ pv10 Pre (tubed) to Alon Model 1 speakers (88dB). The amp seems to be overpowering the rest, I can't turn the pre past 9:00 and keep it under wall shaking decibels. I would like more volume control at lower listening levels. That said, I am thinking about moving to a tube amp(s) since I like the sound/tone of them. What size amp should I be looking for? I almost had a deal for a Dynaco ST70 and am still considering moving in that direction. I have a budget of around $1k and would like to go used to maximize that. What are the benefits to going with 2 amps as opposed to 1 more powerful? So there it is, I am happy with the warmth of tube gear, ready to trade out the big old Bryston-workhorse that she is for a more refined tube amp. All ideas and help are very much appreciated- you guys have got me this far and I am enjoying my music more than at any point in my life.
Very Grateful
Zen
zenblaster

Showing 1 response by beavis

beavis
272 posts
 
To make a proper recommendation, I need to know room size, how acoustally dead (absortive) or live (reflective) your listening room is, how loudly & what you usually listen to (chamber music requires less amp power than rock or orchestral music).

That said, I think the problem is likely an imbalance between your preamp's output voltage & amp's input sensitivity based your observation that you "can't turn the pre past 9:00 and keep it under wall shaking decibels."

I would say contacting Bryston and/or Conrad-Johnson about your concern is your best bet.

You may just need an attenuator or passive level control.
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