2. amps-preamps
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Tube Amp Recommendations

Looking for a tube amp, less than 3K and preferably not more than 2500 dollars, that can power Von Schewikert VR 4 JR speakers. I am using Morrow Audio SP2 speaker cables (a phenomenal produc, the highly acclaimed Audiohorizons tube pre-amp, an Alesis ML-9600 CD player/recorder, a Taddeo Digital Antidote, and LAT international as well as Audiohorizons interconnects.

I wish to avoid the extreme hassle that I experienced with VTL MB-225t monoblocks (will sell very cheaply)with the biasing. If not an autobias set up, I'd need some middle ground from what I went through with the VTL's. Monoblocks or single chassis are OK. Preferably Id like a company that has a reputation of being very service oriented if needed.

If there are amps out there that you can recommend, I am all ears. I am new to the tube game on the amp side. I do have a Music Reference 125 wpc amplifier that is very, very good on one of my systems. However, the audiophile in me wants to try something else.

Thanks.
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nickword
49 posts
 
Music Reference amps are amazing in the power they deliver while simultaneously giving great tube life. Read the reviews and discussions here and eslewhere, you'll find it's true across all of Roger's designs.

I have an original RM-9. Roger went through it a couple of years ago, when it was 17 years old and still running the original RAM tubes. He upgraded a few electrolytics and installed nicer biding posts. I reinstalled the original tubes and they still sound great but decided while the amp was in Roger's care it was an opportunity to try the RAM KT88s. They sound amazing.
ellyjr
97 posts
 
Sonic frontiers Power 2. Great sound,very easy to bias,can drive almost any speakers,reliable, can be upgraded to se+ through Parts connextions by Chris Johnson, he was
SF designer.
robertwolfee
28 posts
 
Better yet, the Sonic Frontiers Power 3 with all the upgrade from Parts connection.
A total, wow, 275 watts of tubes ( 8 KT88 on one side) and a total weight of over 100 lbs each side really demonstrate the power to the speakers.
You can only get it used and sure it will save money too.
Amplifier used before settling in the Sonic Frontiers are:
Audio Research, YBA, McIntosh MC275, EAR and Audio Note.
The Audio Note is in a different breed if the speaker's efficiency is high (I just could not find a better SET amplifier for the voices)
Sonic Frontiers Power 3 for the Maggies or Apogee.
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