DK Design VS-1 versus 300b sound

Jmcgrogan2 makes an interesting point, when he suggests it's hard to believe that a hybrid could sound like an SET (or visa versa I guess).

Thirty years ago tube amps and solid state amps sounded very different, and they each had their strengths and weaknesses. Over time designers have been working to diminish the weaknesses and improve the strengths, and the result is that solid state and (at least push-pull) tube are becoming more and more comparable, picking up more of the positive traits of the other. Will pure solid state ever be as life-like as tube? I don't know, but it's getting closer.

This may happen even for SET amps. I have personally heard SET amps in recent years that do not have the traditional drawbacks of early SETs - which to my ear were loose bass and rolled highs. We no longer have to make that tradeoff in order to obtain the glorious mids of SETs. Even the power of SET's have increased somewhat, so that we can use a little bit less efficient speakers with them.

Stranger things have happened. Let's be skeptical but open-minded.

Art

The DK sounds better "to me" than most separates costing more. I agree with the hostility issue here. Why are people so threatened with something new?
I own one, and am not objective now, but I was when I bought it.
I have owned many pieces, (you name it) an it is better than most.
Live and let live, this amp is GOOOOD.

The amp was just reviewed on Soundstage.

I didn't know what I started when I mentioned my DK was replacing an Audion Silver Knight 300b. The way it happened was I traded-in my Audion MK I version and Audion phono pre-amp on Zingali Overture II speakers as they were more efficent for single-ended use. I intended to get the MK II version as funds permitted later. Being amp-less now except for Nakamichi 5.1 I bought DK VS-1 since it also has a phono input. The Zingali speakers are only a couple days old now and the current JJ tubes also are not broken in, so this response needs to tempered with that in mind. I would characterize the DK sound as being very "analog" in nature. Superior to decent push-pull tubes but not as enveloping as 300b. I would not use the term "transistor slam" with this amp but certainly has more than adequate "oommmph" for 8" Zingali's. I found the Phono section to me more than adequate, am not sure but may be the best feature on this integrated. Overall best feature I like: ability to tailor sound with pre-amp tubes. overall worst feature: the neccesity to find the correct tube on pre-amp to fit your tastes......hope this helps, Mike.

The review was incomplete in a big way. The reviewer chose not to try additional tubes, which to me are the essence of the advantage of having such a product. One can change flavors by spending, just a small amount for two relatively inexpensive tubes.
To let that option go by the boards, when the question begs to be answered, was a tragic mistake.
I changed my tubes from the originals, and for all intents and purposes, I purchased a NEW amp.
I have mentioned before that this is the Gryphon, with a tube sounding pre stage--which, to me would be about a perfect match. I think the reviewer was simply a little 'lazy' by letting that opportunity go by.
Even though I am registered as a commercial user, I have zero affiliation with DK, as they will attest to, if asked.
I only like products which set new standards, in given price ranges.
I used this amp in the final stages of voicing my loudspeaker line, the LSA, after having used the wonderful Halcro line up of separates. To my surprise the sound was wonderful. "Musical" is overused, but the only appropriateword to describe my experience with this amp.
Nicksgem10s, mentioned that he would be interested in the viewpoints of three Audiogon members with more experience than he, well, having owned my own store, and worked for two VERY well known speaker companies, as Director of Sales for one, and President Emeritus,(an honorary title, as I am disabled.) Here is a gargantuan thumbs all the way up. Get one and don't look back. This piece is for real. Only people who can't compete, or are jealous of 'cheaper with better performance' could possibly make negative comments on this piece.