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MOST tubelike solid state amp

Sorry for another "most" thread.

I am rebuilding a system from scratch and desperately wish I could find a truly tubelike ss amp. I am particularly sensitive to "excessive detail," but had hoped I could get away from some of the challenges of tube gear to take advantage of the many strengths of ss....

My speakers love high current, as will their replacement pair (Avalons- Opus now, Eidolon some day). Front end is digital now (ML390s). I have listened to many of the usual suspects- levinson (336 and 33H), Pass (a couple from the X series, but not the biggest ones), Classe Omega, Plinius... but now find myself contemplating a VTL MB 450 or MB750.

Are there any other SS amps which tube lovers find wonderful too? What about YBA, Goldmund, Spectral, Rowland? I haven't heard these yet, but feel the pull of tubes getting stronger with every fatiguing moment...

Your opinions are much appreciated
jwaugh
mg123
192 posts
 
Have you heard the older Pass Labs Aleph series? They are two stage SET design. very tube like .... In fact I saw someonw selling a pair of the Aleph 2 mono blocks at an amazing price. That would be the best of the bunch.
aball
2,018 posts
 
I would check into McIntosh, Classe, or Rowland. Did you not like the Omega? I personally love the McIntoshes for a warmth like no other I have listened to (any of them but the older ones are even warmer IMO). I had the same question several years ago and McIntosh turned out to be my answer. MIT cables also help noticibly in the warmth dept. I listened to a Blue Circle amp (don't remember model) and it was very nice as well.
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
I agree with Tireguy with regards to the A50V. It is a wonderful match with the Avalon speakers. Another choice is Jeff Rowland amps. I would avoid the Spectral gear like the plague if you are looking for a "tube like" sound.

As an alternative to changing your amplification, try to borrow an Audio Aero Capitole CD player. That may solve your problem and leave you in bliss. Where are you located?

BTW, I am an Audio Aero dealer. My recommendation is based on the fact that the 2 tubes in the Capitole might give you what you feel you are currently lacking. It is heavenly.
jvia
195 posts
 
May I suggest you listen to a solid state amp from the masters of the tube, Audio Research? Plenty out there used, and they share many of the qualities that they also build into their tube amps. No, don't have all of the snob or I am different appeal, but still an incredibly fine product.
skull
36 posts
 
Having owned Eidolons, if the ML 33Hs are still too cold,
would suggest the VTL 450s and 750s. Great amps, lots of power. Other suggestions are the Lamm 90 watter, the Audio Aero, and the Bat 150s.

They are good speakers, but can be too sterile with most if not all solid state. You might try the Edge monos if SS if SS is a priority.
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