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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
theothergreg
222 posts
 
grnmtnboy77, I think the strategy to go with a VAC preamp makes sense based on your situation.  For your digital, could you use Modwright as a stand alone DAC connected to the VAC inputs? 

I'm in NorCal and always happy to talk shop.
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,736 posts
 
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! 
grnmtnboy77 OP
17 posts
 
Thanks theothergreg. I’ll probably get back in touch with my dealer and see if he can help me move in the VAC direction albeit slowly.  Not sure if I can use the DAC part of the Modwright-probably easier to reconfigure the digital part of the system as well and sell the Modwright eventually.

bdp24, thanks for the suggestion.
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