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Selling off Tubes for Solid State, A Cooler Love Story?

I've always sought out Primaluna gear as my end all be all gear. I started with an integrated, then went to separates and have been very, very happy. What has given me such good sound, is also causing the room temperature to be somewhat annoying. Being in a little shoe box room of 10x15, I've had to result to opening a window, which is becoming tiresome. 

The heat from just the KT88's is causing me to considering going solid state, which will be in preparation for the Summer in my tiny upstairs room. I'd like to possibly get a second amp for the summer months, but am not sure where to start with solid state amps. Do I pick up a BHK? Do I go all in on a used Ypsilon or Dartzeel? What did you look for in a solid state amp and where should I look? I BHK I could test drive at home, but a used Ypsilon I wouldn't able able to try and would just have to pull the trigger. Any advice or guidance is appreciated. 

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jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

the linear tube audio zotl reference 40 tube amp is worth mentioning in this discussion

https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/products/zotl-40-reference-amplifier

a very special amp in that it uses the berning circuit, without output transformers and runs its 4x el34’s at a very modest biasing, thus very moderate heat (much less overall in my experience than a pass or belles class a ss amp, for instance)

the amp has a wonderful, sparkling clarity, speed and impact rarely found in tube power amps, kind of a ying to the primaluna’s yang in sonic attributes - but with all the midrange and imaging magic we expect from tubes (not to mention that w/o transformers, it is light as a feather... :)

sandthemall
544 posts
 

Try (x8) 7581A tubes instead of KT88s. My Evo 400 does run fairly warm but not hot enough for me ever to give a care. On top of that Primalunas run tubes relatively easy so I find this post entirely fascinating.

But sounds like the OP is ready for something new. 

 

laoman's avatar
laoman
391 posts
 

Ypsilon is quality and recommended. Have you considered an integrated from Mola Mola Kula. Class D, and real hi end?

laoman's avatar
laoman
391 posts
 

There is also Spec. Spec is a Japanese maker, class D, but sounds like tube amps. Cheaper than the Mola Mola.

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