2. amps-preamps
  3. 1249096387

Are mono tube amps my best choice?

I own a Denon 5910 multi disc player as my only source, which I’ve been running into a Burson buffer gain device, and then through two separate passive volume controls. From there I’ve been feeding my four B&K M200 mono amps to my Silverline Grandeur ll speakers. This setup actually sounds pretty nice.

Because my M200s are now over twenty years old, I’m thinking about switching to mono tube amps. I’ve never had tubes in anything I’ve owned. Because my wife and I watch movies (and listen to music), I don’t have space in the middle of the room for a single amp (only 4 inches of height). My stands, passive preamp, and wiring are geared for mono amps.

I live near Sacramento, California, and emailed Min at tubeaudiolab with my room specs and setup to see what he thought would work best. He recommended a pair of mono amps with Kt 88 tubes that produce approximately 60 watts per channel. From the reviews I’ve seen, it appears Min makes some pretty good equipment.

I’m hoping for some Audiogon wisdom to show me the way. Am I making the right choice switching to tube amps? I don’t want to spend more than $2000.
kevine
kevine OP
38 posts
 
Paulfolbrecht,

You have given me something else to think about and research. After I hear back from Alan at Silverline, I'll consider my options.
rodman99999
6,156 posts
 
Kevine: I've been actively bi-amping my home systems since 1980, and most of that time with tubes on the top. Done correctly; the presentation is excellent.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Silverline voices their speakers with solid state amplifiers.
rodman99999
6,156 posts
 
I should have stated, "Done correctly; one can enjoy the speed, definition and dynamics of SS on the bottom and the delicacy, timbre, liquid mids, open sound stage and natural decay of notes that tubes can provide on top."
kevine OP
38 posts
 
Rodman99999,

What do you use on the top end and bottom end? Please explain what you mean by "Done correctly...".
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