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tube monoblocks and preamp recommendations

I have recently acquired a set of Altec Model 19s. In my mind, these would be great with tube monoblocks and a preamp.  I would like to keep modern conveniences in mind(remote, input for downloaded/streaming content).  I value any advice thrown my way.  Ideally, I would like to keep below $5,000 but understand I may have to pay more for something that is not integrated.  Thanks all!
harle
harle OP
4 posts
 

Atmasphere,

SETs seem to have quite the following, but for my application and based on the way I have all your input constructed in my head- I seem to agree; More power will be better.  Thank you for the suggestions.   I was not sure how the space behind me would impact the sound.  I've never listened to music at home without a wall somewhere in the near vicinity behind me.  Do you know the db and ohm for my 19s? 


Seems like I can't lose going with power amps from quicksilver or as meadowman suggested a Rogue Audio stereo100 (or Cronus Magnum II integrated). 

Bigboltz,

Have you run your Quicksilver monos with a Quicksilver preamp? As you've mentioned Atmasphere paired with Quicksilver, is it common to have different manufacturers for a preamp/power amp combo?

chinzon,

I have always wanted a pair of McIntosh monoblocks, but I have never had an opportunity to purchase them.  I am somewhat apprehensive because it appears they all need some level of rebuild.  That is a level of skill I have not mastered. Terry DeWick- I hear that name a lot but I have not found monoblocks and a preamp he is selling.   Again, McIntosh has always excited me, but I don't know if I'm educated enough to make a good purchase.  In this case, my ignorance scares me but I'm happy to hear thoughts of those more experienced.  Thank you everyone.

mikirob
955 posts
 
Please visit Jeff Day's Blog, jeffsplace.me and you will find out most everything you might need to know about McIntosh and great speakers like Altec. Jeff formerly reviewed audio for 6moons; he currently is a reviewer at Positive Feedback. Great guy and it's easy to email him with comments or questions. Jeff's blog site has great information on Terry DeWick and many other stellar audio folks. Best, and good luck...Rob
dkarmeli
334 posts
 
I’m a vintage dealer and have had several model 19s in the past. It’s one of those speakers that straddles the efficiency and not so eficient fence. The model 19’s woofer does need a certain amount of power to come to life but a solid state amp will sound horrible with the horn section. Your best bet is a higher powered push/pull tube amp in the 50-100 watt range. Both Quicksilver & Jolida have nice sounding products in that range as does Atmosphere. SETs would normally be my first recommendation with vintage horns but in this case aren't going to do it for Model 19's woofer.

david
dentdog's avatar
dentdog
474 posts
 
One can always find vintage Mcintosh tube amps on Ebay or the Gon. There is a pair of MC 60s on Ebay but they are priced a little high right now. 
As for service, Terry Dewick will check them out for a very reasonable fee. A comment he mad to me was to the effect that you should never worry, these things are so easy to fix. Rebuild is a scary word but on the MC60s I own the initial service was about $350. To say they will probably last forever is pretty accurate.
My speakers are 101db efficient but they like the 60 watts and the headroom is a comfort. Nothing I hate worse than wondering if my amp is starting to clip. 
Nothing wrong with Quicksilver or Atmosphere though. Quicksilver has always seemed to me to be a poor man's Mac. Atmosphere on the other hand has a rep as an absolutely top of the line product. Transformers in the old Macs are up there with the best ever produced. 
Any of these three choices are going to be a lot of fun with the Altecs.
Great prices on Chinese amps but I stick with American made. 

ggc
178 posts
 
Harle,

I agree with both you and Meadowman regarding Rouge Audio.
You may also want to consider the  RP Preamps matched with the Hybrid Models as well. The Hydra and Medusa are very quiet and retain fantastic dynamics.  An RP -1 with a Hydra falls right in your price range. You can also tube roll later on. As for McIntosh  - they are not the same company you remember, Now owned by Fine Sounds. BTW there are Thales Speaker cable up on Agon which would really make your Altecs Sing!
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