SET 45 Amp Driving Dynamic Speakers


I have an Antique Sound Labs Tulip SET amp running Emission Labs mesh plate 45s, driving Audio Note AN E speakers. It will play WAY louder than I want to listen, and the dynamics are amazing with all types of music.

Why do I keep reading that 45s (and other low power triodes) are only appropriate for horns, or other super efficient speakers? I think a real disservice has been done to the audiophile community by the propagation of this idea. IMO, anyone who prefers to listen to music at sane levels can enjoy the many benefits of a low power SET amp with carefully chosen dynamic speakers.

Anyone else feel this way/have similar experience?
tommylion
Charles, yes Atmasphere s-30 would be nice and I have considered but looking for a more compact integrated amp initially.   Still waiting to see an  Atmasphere OTL integrated amp.  :^).

This would be a third system  in a smaller room if I do it and I am not seeking a large investment to compete with or replace my main system at least initially.    If things work out and I retire to smaller quarters at some point in the not too distant future and decide to downsize, maybe.  It all depends.  We'll see.



Listening to Beethoven’s 7th Symphony with Carlos Kleiber conducting the Vienna Philharmonic. Don’t know if there is any higher order harmonic distortion going on, but it sounds, and feels, like I’m in the hall.

Peaked at 87 on my dB meter.
Tommie,
You're very happy with your amplifier and speakers, I wouldn't change a thing.
Charles,