Tube amp for KEF Reference 3s


Hi Everyone,

  Long time Audiogoner but this is my first post here.  I am looking for some suggestions regarding amplification for my KEF Reference 3s.  Currently I have a Modwright KWI 200 with built-in DAC which I like a lot, but wonder if the KEFs would benefit from a high-quality tube amp.  I would like to go for a high-end amp like a VAC or Air Tight but would prefer "testing the waters" first by trying a tube amp in my system.  I primarily listen to Tidal streamed through a Audalic Aries into the Modwright and analog through a VPI Traveler/Musical Surroundings Nova II.  I have a small listing area (my office) which is approximately 12 x 16 and I have some GIK acoustic panels in the corners and along my back wall.  If anyone has suggestions as to a "low-priced" tube amp that might give the KEFs a somewhat warmer sound I'd be willing to purchase used and then move up the chain to a higher-end amp if things work out.  Thanks in advance for your advice.

grnmtnboy77

Showing 3 responses by bdp24

If you're in SoCal, the U.S.A. distributor of EAR-Yoshino is somewhere in Los Angeles, perhaps Santa Monica. I believe he sells as well as distributes, and may have a small showroom or at least demo room, and may be willing to play the EAR 868 for you. But don't quote me---he can be cantankerous! 
The EAR 868L is a nice line stage pre, same circuit as the $12,000 EAR 912 but without it's meters and extra controls. They go for about $3000 when available second-hand. Not as well known or owned as American brands, but EAR designer Tim Paravicini is one of the handful of most knowledgeable, talented tube circuit experts working today. The EAR 868/912 is a favorite pre of both Art Dudley (Stereophile) and Robert Levi (Positive Feedback). And myself. 
If, as I suspect, the KEF's are a low-impedance design, an amp particularly good at driving low-impedance speakers is the Music Reference RM200 Mk.2. Read the Stereophile review of it to see why. It is included in the Class A/Tube category in the Recommended Components list in the October issue of the mag.