Thanks for the input, guys. I've recently purchased a pair of Martin Logan CLS II's (non Z version). Not set up yet due to a recent move. My McCormack DNA 1 Deluxe has done a good job of driving my Apogee hybrids and I'll try it out with the CLS's. Since the CLS's don't go to high Db levels or very low in the bass, my thought was that maybe something like a VT100 might do a better job in the mids and provide more air -- the liquidity of a good tube amp might be a good match for the transparency of these speakers. I guess the only way to find out is to try both. Audio Research is coming out with a MK III version of the VT 100, so there will probably be good deals available soon on MKII's. Yeah, replacing the tubes is a hassle and an expense, but if the sound is right I can live with that (I think). But I still question this amp's ability to deliver the required current to these very difficult to drive speakers (impedance can dip to .5 ohms). Thanks again for all of the information. Jim
Tube vs Solid State - Comparable Output?
I know this is a terribly general question -- and maybe off the wall -- but is there any difference in a tube versus a solid state amplifiers' with comparable power ratings ability to generate high current? This relates to amp selection for current hungry low impedance speakers. Is 200w the same whether its created by tube or solid state? Someone recently told me that a 100w tube amp (Audio Research) was comparable to a 200w solid state amp in this regard. True or no? Thanks in advance.