2. amps-preamps
  3. 133757-100034

Tube Amp Questions

Hello all!

I've decided to build my system around my Thiel CS 3.7 speakers. Currently, I'm using an ARC LS-7 tube line-stage (purchased just 3 weeks ago) feeding my old Denon PMA-2000 IVR integrated. Sources are laptop running Tidal & Roon, as well as Denon 2900 CD/SACD player.  Musical tastes are varied, but I listen mostly to classic rock, the blues, classic jazz & Latin/bossanova. 

My questions are regarding tube amps. One, in real-world experience, are they really that labor intensive to maintain & operate?  Two, the particular amp im considering is an ARC VS110. According to ARC, it draws 400 watts at idle, 620 at rated output & 900 maximum. How big of an impact does running an amp like this have on an electric bill? 

These are newbie questions, I know, but after a really long time as an admirer of the "High-End", I've finally decided to leave "Mid-Fi" behind, albeit by going the vintage/pre-owned route. 

Thanks for any input or reccomendations!

Arvin


arvincastro

Showing 4 responses by arvincastro

arvincastro's avatar
arvincastro OP
121 posts
 
Hello all!

Thank you so much for all your feedback and suggestions...they were all truly helpful.

The big thing I'm taking away from this discussion is that, as one moves away from the more "standard" stereo equipment & into the realm of Hi-Fi, equipment matching is so, so crucial.  I now know why so many of us in the hobby agonize over the choices that make up our systems...the impact of any change is magnified on a whole new level with equipment that is so capable & so revealing.

I am going to take my time & try to audition several possibilities.  Will definitely keep you all updated.

Thanks again so much!

Arvin
arvincastro's avatar
arvincastro OP
121 posts
 
@almarg   

Hello Al!  Thanks for both of your posts...incredibly useful info!!!

If I may, one more question for you:  As I'm so new to the whole idea of component matching, using the example of mismatched impedances between preamp & amp, what does the result "sound" like?  In other words, how do I know by listening that my equipment just isn't "right" for each other?

Thanks for any additional insight you may be able to share!

Arvin
arvincastro's avatar
arvincastro OP
121 posts
 
@kalali  

Well, the Denon doubles to 160 watts @ 4 ohms, so it works ok.  Truth be told, I got the speakers at such a good price locally that I'm starting with them as the building block and going from there.

The ARC VS110 I offered on went to someone else, so...in hind sight, it was prob for the better as the majority of feedback I've gotten from here as well as from friends is that SS is a better option for Thiels.  

You're right:  I'm shopping in the $2K - $3K range.  There are two options that are catching my eye right now, a Krell KST-100 & a Pass Labs x150.  Both are Class A for some of their range, then switching to Class A/B.  

My concern now is my ARC LS-7 line stage.  How do I know if it will "match" these (or any other) amplifiers?

Arvin
arvincastro's avatar
arvincastro OP
121 posts
 
Hello all,

Just to provide some closure to this topic, I went with an Audio Research D240 Mk II. I was able to audition it in my system & loved how it drove my Thiels. There was a definite increase in clarity over the entire frequency range, but more noticeably, more power, “slam” & control at the bottom end. For most of the music I listen to, gaining this power & control was probably a good trade off between getting a “warmer” type of sound with a tube amp. 

In the end, I now have tubes in my LS-7 line-stage & in my PH-3 phono pre-amp to go along with the SS D240. 

Thanks again for everyone’s help & suggestions!

Arvin
More to discover