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Which is the most tubelike solid state amp around

Being a tube person who is trying to put together an active loudspeaker setup , I have come across the problem of choosing the best driver for the midrange and upper bass i.e.80Hz to 2.5 KHz. I would like to try a panel such as a Magnapan but am told that they are rather power hungry. Therefore, I would be grateful if fellow Audiogoners could share your experience in relation to the best powerful SS amps that would not be out of place in a "tube-ophile's" system.
Thanks
ecka

Showing 3 responses by phd

phd
1,328 posts
 
I could easily recommend the Odyssey Stratos. Quoting one reviewer the Stratos has weighty bass but more importantly it has a smooth grain free treble and a distinct lack of the upper midrange glare often found in affordable solid state products.
phd
1,328 posts
 
Tvad, I agree, there is no such thing as a solid state amp that sounds like tubes but there are a handful of solid state amps that are less offensive. Can you tell me if you have come across an ss amp that sounds like a tube amp, if so I would love to hear about it.
phd
1,328 posts
 
Personally I will never own a tube amp, tube preamps are the exception. The idea that they are wearing out as soon as they are powered up I find unacptable. If I had ten of the best tube amps ever made I would be more than happy to sell each and everyone of them to the first taker. Solid state has improved to such a degree that there is no need to look at alternatives. I just want to find the best tube preamp & ss amp that work well together
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