2. amps-preamps
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Tube Pre and Solid Amp

I wonder if tube pre must match with tube amp. How about tube pre and solid amp? I look into this question from the point of system reliability. I think the latest best solid amp can reproduce 95% of best tube amp. So a solid amp is a better subsitution for tube amp in terms of reliability, duability, maintenance free, isn't it?

I have a Krell PAM-3/KSA50. A pretty old solid combination. I am considering upgrade it with VAC tube preamp and Pass Labs XA160. Hope this will get somewhere I enjoy the warm and musical sound of tube and the punch, power and above mentioned advantages of solid. Any comment.
benwai123

Showing 1 response by jwmazur

jwmazur
191 posts
 
I am using an Eastern Electric Mini Max tube pre driving a Spectron Musician II digital amp. I have listened to a Pass X350 in my system. It was a tough decision because the Spectron sounded so much more to my liking. The Pass had killer looks.

I have had 28 different amps in the past 12 years. This combo is the best.
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