2. amps-preamps
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Recommendation

I am considering purchasing a solid state pre amplifier.  I would consider paying as much as $10,000. It will replace a VTL 5.5.  I have used a tube preamp for over 20 years, and I love the sound of tubes, but it is becoming more and more difficult to change the tubes, and now that I am using Tidal and internet radio, the pre amp is on almost all of the time.

The power amp is BAT 6500 and Magneplaner Tympani t 1d.  (I have owned the tympanies since 1978!)

nmaudlin295n
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
As a fan of tube preamps, Klyne is the only SS preamp that I would consider.

I certainly haven't heard them all, but I've owned Levinson, Krell, Classe, Rowland, Klyne, Coda, Threshold and had Ayre, Pass Labs, Spectral, and BAT preamps in my system.
I have not heard Vitus, Burmester, MBL, etc., but they may be over your $10K range, even used.

Curiously, how hard is it to change tubes? Some tube designs even have the tubes openly accessible.
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infection's avatar
infection
808 posts
 
In your opinion what are the strengths & weaknesses of the VTL? 
What are your input requirements? 
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,769 posts
 
Keep the amp and pay a tech to visit your home with white gloves and replace the tubes every few years. No point paying out huge money for streaming source material.
nmaudlin295n OP
8 posts
 
Dear Infection:. I really like the VTL.  Really, the only reason to switch is to avoid having to pull the unit out a couple of times per year and change the tubes.  

I like noromance's advice--. When it comes time to change the tubes, and if I do not want to do it, I will hire someone!  

Thanks for all the comments.  

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