2. amps-preamps
  3. 131822-10803

Low output gain amplifier for ZU 101db Efficient speakers

I am thrilled with my new Rogue RP-5 preamp. However, like I mentioned before, the tube Hiss is really loud (I can hear back of room). It’s a smooth, non noisy hiss. I chatted with Rogue and they are sending replacement tubes but guess it’s due to my Nuforce STA200 amp with output gain of 34db. I was told that was quite high for having such efficient speakers. Rogue told me they test their equipment on high efficiency Klipsch speakers and the RP5 is quiet.

Anyway, I have attenuators coming today to help until I now find a power amp. I would love to have an Atma-Spere amp, however, they are too pricey for my budget (even used). Maybe a used Firstwatt f3 or these Quicksilver monoblock amps that are made for high efficient speakers http://quicksilveraudio.com/products/horn-mono/

The lower priced Decware amps look nice, plus they have gain settings.

For those who own high efficiency speakers with a tube pre, any other options? I really hate to switch out the RP-5 because it has all the functions available on the remote and it sounds great.


aberyclark
migueca's avatar
migueca
112 posts
 
I own a pair of Zu Omen def with a Line Magnetic 219ia. This is an expensive amplifier, but even the cheaper ones (518 and 508) are excellent.
Another good option is a relatively new amplifier from Hong Kong - KingKo Audio. The designer is a friend of mine (he was previously selling Rogue Audio, Line Magnetic and Zu, so he decided to create his product based on his own ideas and also the best from each brand he was selling).
His amplifier is small and perfect for high efficiency speakers. Top quality parts, extra care with the transformer and even a very high quality headphones tap. Also very affordable valves and gorgeous meters. 
Can work as integrated or power amp. 
The sales are exceeding his previous expectations and there is a very good review on the audio website DAGOGO. 
Here are the links:
http://kingkoaudio.com/en/pages/KINGKO-AUDIO.html

https://www.dagogo.com/kingko-audio-ka-101-integrated-amplifier-review/

Note: although friend of the owner of this brand, I have no interest or profits from his sales. I'm just giving a very personal and honest suggestion. 

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
Thanks for the kingko link. I would have never found unless I posted here
seikosha
218 posts
 
I've got both Decware and Quicksilver Horn Monos.  The Quicksilvers are really dead quiet amps and they sound superb.  They'd be a great match in your setup. 
aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
Well, I did some more testing. I have a defective pre-amp. I had time to kill. I went and purchased some new JJ 12au7's and the loud Hiss is still audible from back of room. Another audiophile from another forum told me that, even with my amp's gain and speakers, the hiss should not be that loud. Plus, I tried headphones, the hiss is loud WITH buzzing. Again, I'm not expecting SS quiet, especially with my speakers. I plugged in my class D ceiling speaker amp (along with  ceiling speakers)---hiss is loud as can be. Same with my older B&K amp and different speakers. Plus, I did all the usual (cables, outlets, power conditioner, power cord, etc).

So I am boxing the amp and sending off to Rogue today. Hopefully, I can get back in the next week. This was my 50th Birthday gift from my wife  I'm taking a couple of days off late next week and I hope I get the unit returned by then. Very disappointed :(
aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 
I've got both Decware and Quicksilver Horn Monos. The Quicksilvers are really dead quiet amps and they sound superb. They'd be a great match in your setup.


Which do you prefer and what are the sound charactoristics of each?
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