2. amps-preamps
  3. 1151437771

I'm Ready to go TUBE

After many years of solid state ownership I want to experience the true TUBE sound in my system. At present I have a Mcintosh 2205 amp and a Mcintosh Mx-117. I think I would want to change out the amp first. At present I am running Paradigm studio 80's and Magnepans ever so often. I what to upgrade speakers later as well. My question is what would be a good amp ( vintage or new ) without taking a huge jump in price over what I could get for my Mac say an extra $1000.00 Also, what should I look for in a amp when considering speakers in the future? I listen to blues, R&B and classical.
Thanks in advance,
Dean
dean_fuller
seattle_mike's avatar
seattle_mike
43 posts
 
I strongly recommend the ROGUE products. Their Stereo 90 amp is a modern classic and retails for only $2200, the Metis pre-amp is a grand and was just called the 'budget component of their year' in a rave review in TAS.

This is not classic 'tubey' gear, soft, with no frequency extremes. This has the incredible 'realness' and amazing midrange you get from tubes, but a more modern sound. Think ARC, but not so analytical. And way more reliable. My Rogue pre and power amp are dead quiet, I mean SILENT. Very nice gear.
jtgofish's avatar
jtgofish
515 posts
 
You need to determine if your speakers suit a tube amp.In my experience most mainstream speakers don't.
The real magic of tube amps is generally only revealed with simple efficient speakers.
This is more involved than just efficiency too.Complex crossovers rob tube amps of much of their potential.As I understand it this is due to tube amps having low damping factors.
I tend to agree with Larryken in that you should look into a tube preamp first.
This is not to say that I don't love tube power amps,but finding optimal speakers for them can be an issue.And if you are happy with your speakers why change?

JT
711smilin
513 posts
 
Check out the Dodd 120's, you will smile
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