2. digital
  3. 1217316337

tube cd player with solid state amp and preamp

will a tube cd player yield a tube sound with a denon receiver as a preamp and a b&k 2 channel amp? I listened to a tube system and I liked the sound of it for 2 channel listening but I dont really have the resources to buy a totally tube system. What I have right now is a solid state Ht system that in my opinion sounds descent for ht and 2 channel listening. If I add a tube cd player will it produce a tube sound or is it a waste of money? any recommendations?
chameleon

Showing 2 responses by cleaneduphippy

cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
Chamleon,

Agree with Newbee, that while a tube CDP will add some tube warmth to your system, to get a true tube sound, you're going to need a tube amp. If I was you I would be looking for a used tube integrated amp (check audiogon listings), and add that to your system. Chances are you can get a tube integrated amp for less money than you can get a tube CDP. And you'll definely be closer to the tube sound you're looking for.
cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
"Tube amps can lack bottom end and have that tube bloated sound."

Steuspeed,

I get plenty of bottom end and it's not bloated, out my tube amp. You read your post and it's somewhat contradicts itself. You're saying that tube amps have a "bloated sound", but then you turn around and say that your "system is all tube and the CD player made a big improvement with soundstage, musicality and fatigue." I assume your CDP is a tube one, but are you're saying it induces "fatigue"? I certainly hope not. Hate to say it, but your post seems to say thet tube CDPs sound good, but tube amps sound "bloated and lack a bottom end". Makes me wonder why you have a tube system? Can't tell whether you like tubes or not.
More to discover