Tube Preamps


I was wondering opinions on whether or not a tube preamp might fix or reduce my overly bright sounding system. I am currently sourced by a Rotel RCD_1520 with Rotel RB-1582 2x200 watt amp, Rotel RC-1580 preamp with B&W CM7 speakers. I know the speakers are a tad bright, but when I disconnect the Rotel amp/pre and reconnect my old NAD c317 integrated, it sound great. I like the warm sound and deep bass of the NAD. Isn't the amplifier just amplifying what it receives from the preamp? Is it possible for an amp to be bright?
donjr

Showing 1 response by plato

Yes, your speakers are a tad bright and it's very possible for an amp to sound bright too... and pretty likely if it's solid-state. Some sound brighter than others. Yes, flat response is the goal, but you probably wouldn't like it if you heard it anyway.

A tube preamp could help if mellow-sounding tubes are used, but the bass will be less deep and distinct. I'm sure the tone controls on the NAD amp help out... if it has a preamp output maybe you could try the preamp output into the Rotel amp's inputs. That way you could simply turn down the treble. Do you have a nice padded rug on the floor???

Good Luck