Cool running, low powered power amp


My regular amp is a Class A, all tube (KT 88’s) affair that runs very warm. For most of the year, it doesn’t matter. But in the dog days of summer, it can become unpleasant in my smallish listening room, where the AC doesn’t reach as well.

My speakers are Volti Razz, which are something like 97 db efficient. My big tube amp is out in California getting repaired, and at the moment, the Volti are enjoying time spent with a Scott 299A. Those 17 wpc are plenty (and sound way better than a 65 year-old amp with original tubes (or at least, tubes marked "H.H. Scott") should. Volti says it only needs to be 8 watts to do the job.

I was thinking of First Watt, or maybe Pass Labs XA 25. But both of those are also Class A. But maybe all Class A are not alike in terms of generating heat. I am not anti-class D, and have had two Class D amps that sounded good, but I’d be more interested in A/B, or cooler running Class A. I'd like to bring it in under $3000, and I am a big fan of used equipment.

Thanks,

David

 

dtorc

Showing 2 responses by paradisecom

The Decware is a fantastic choice.  I was just going to suggest it or maybe a Decware Rachel.  Happy listening and be sure to report back on your findings.

Yes, the Decware waitlist is something to contend with.  There is a set of UFO monoblocks on USAM right now just above your budget line.  However, the regular UFO's come up about once a month or so for sale.  

There is also a gorgeous, upgraded Rachel for sale that should do everything you want, as well and it's under your budget.  I'd take a serious look at that one.