If you're the type of listener that is obsessed with "breaking-glass" cymbals and "thunderclap" bass, you're gonna need solid state with plenty of watts which cost plenty to do right. If, like me, you prefer to get directly to the heart of the music ...put on an album and enter the world of live, in-room entertainment presented for your exclusive attendance, you've just got to try single-ended triode tubes. Admittedly, the majority of designs are low (less than 10watts) in true Class A / Zero Feedback (The ONLY way!!!). There are however a few designs which take advantage of the larger 211 and 805 power tubes, and can double that power delivery! Don't be discouraged by the maths! These amps will drive loudspeakers that they shouldn't. My 8 watt Cary's drive anything 88db sensitvity upwards. And don't believe that the bass is soft and furry. What's there is timbrally correct and tuneful. But the heart of the message is in the amazingly natural and wholistic sound that can be achieved. With a superb investment like the SL3's, you owe it to yourself to find a good dealer who is not only honest enough to admit that no, he hasn't actually heard it for himself - but will also go to some trouble to set it up for you. The Cary equipment gets my highest praise by the way. Good luck!
