2. amps-preamps
  3. 162633-147523

Should I got full tubes or stick with hybrid amps?

I currently have a Jolida 1501. I like it but I think I have upgraditis. I originally bought it (hybrid) because I’m really sensitive to highs (get a headache). It’s been good to me and I can listen without fatigue.

To help with upgraditis, I just bought a Yamaha AS801 to try out and although it definitely sounds good and has nice detail it is creating a little fatigue for me. I’m still in the break-in period so this may smooth out a bit.  (I definitely like having bass/treble controls).

Thinking about picking up a full tube amp or another hybrid for comparison. I don’t know much about other manufacturers of tubes/hybrids.

What’s the difference (sonically) between a hybrid and a full tube amp? Any recommendations?

Thanks!!
soundchasr
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,360 posts
 
I have never heard ONIX loudspeakers but the web says they are 88db efficient and warm sounding. I think I would dump the tubes and go solid state, maybe a Musical Fidelity integrated. Low efficiency and warm loudspeakers don't really cry out for tubes. 
soundchasr OP
159 posts
 
@russ69 
How would the Musical Fidelity compare with the Yamaha AS801?

@hilde45    
I'll throw some comforters and pillows around this weekend and see what happens.  
soundchasr OP
159 posts
 
How would you treat this room?  

https://ibb.co/pJ0pxVx
smrex13
645 posts
 
I have the Yamaha A-S701 (same as 801 w/o the good DAC), and at first I found it to be a hard in the treble.  I did several things that addressed this, and the sound is much better than I would have thought it could be.  

First I used vibration control footers underneath it and a weight on top.  I also replaced the stock fuse with a HiFi Tuning Supreme Cu fuse - these tend to give a warmer sound.  And, of course, I used a decent power cable with it.  I was surprised by how much it improved the overall sound and relaxed the treble.  Of course, I would recommend these tweaks with any amp - it's not just the A-S701 that benefits.  That being said, if you are looking for a smooth, non-fatiguing top end, the A-S801 is probably not the ideal amp for you.  

Just my two cents,Scott
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,360 posts
 
"...How would the Musical Fidelity compare with the Yamaha AS801?..."

I would recommend a M5si or a M6si. Tons of power, more than their wattage rating suggests. It would be a giant step up from mass consumer products.

P.S. I have heard a number of Musical Fedelity integrateds and they all sound great. I run an M3si with a pair of Martin Logan electrostatics and it sounds great. It replaced a 6K 400 WPC McIntosh amp.
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