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Using tube amp with electrostatic speakers.

Moons ago I started similar discussions and thought I had been given enough good advice not to approach the subject again. Here goes anyway. I've used Martin Logan electrostats for well over 30 years with quite a few different amps but have recently switched to a tube amp and dynamic speakers with which I am very satisfied.  It consists of the Cary Rocket 88R amp and Serie Reference 3 speakers. 

My brother was visiting last week and was so impressed with the sound that he decided that he might want to try a tube amp also (probably the same one as mine).  However, he is using a pair of SL3's that I gave him years ago and I'm concerned primarily about the current requirements of the Martin Logans as well as other concerns that I'm not thinking of.  I don't want him spending money on something that may not bring him improved sound so would appreciate more advice to pass on to him.  He currently uses a Rogue Audio SS amp with his SL3 speakers and, to me, it sounds very good. 
jimbreit

Showing 1 response by pryso

pryso
1,986 posts
 
stewart, "Planars whether it be magnetic or electrostatic sound their best when fed prodigious solid state juice....."

Some years ago I heard a Magnepan demo at the CES where they were driving MG 3.6s bi-amped with Bryston amps (no recollection of which models).  I can't say their sound was pleasing or even interesting.

However I've also heard MG 3.6s driven by a 100 watt ARC tube amp which sounded musical and highly enjoyable.

Does this mean I'm right and you're wrong?  Or you're right and I'm wrong?  I'll say neither one.  Only that different folks have different preferences and there are no absolutes.

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