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Integrateds: Warm sounding SS vs Hybrid

I have recently had Bryston B60 and Unison Unico amps. They each had their strengths. Overall I liked the Unico better, its more forward, fuller sound and a wider soundstage, due to its tube preamp. However, I wasn't enamored with the tube hiss I was getting, I realize that there might have been a problem with the amp, but I have read about others having this problem. With no music playing, or very quiet passages in classical music, the hiss could be heard from the listening position6-8 feet away.

I have read reviews of some SS amps where their sound is described as "tube-like".

My questions are:

1) Has anyone who had owned tubed gear heard a SS integrated that sounds like tubes?

2) Was my experience with Unison tube hiss likely due to faulty gear/tubes, etc?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
sandman012
sandman012 OP
50 posts
 
Does anyone have any opinions on the sonic differences between a Bel Canto evo2i Integreated and the Marantz Pm-11s1 or Plinius 9100?

The bel canto seems to have a "unique" sound from online reviews I've read.

The other 2 are leading candidates for warm sounding SS.

Thanks,
Stephen
flg2001's avatar
flg2001
543 posts
 
Hi - I have had some Integrateds (tubed, hybrid and SS) - if you are looking for a warm sound amp you should check the Primaluna (budget), or the Sugden class A line.

For hybrids Pathos and Acoustic Plan (which I own now) are really fantastic options.

Good luck
sandman012 OP
50 posts
 
Thanks.
vladimir
346 posts
 
Magnum Dynalab MD 208 Receiver, with a great FM tuner as a bonus, or the MD 308 without the tuner.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
Music Hall Mambo is in your range.
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