2. amps-preamps
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SET amp for Gallo ref 3.1

I am currently driving my my Gallo Ref 3.1 (with Gallo subwoofer amp)with vintage Marantz MA 1 monoblocs(class A). Preamp is McIntosh C220, analog front end VPI Superscoutmaster with a Shelter 90x, digital front end OPPO BD 83. I have recently become addicted to SET tube amplification and wondered if anybody had any experience with tube amplification for the Gallos. I listen mostly to orchestral music and Jazz at moderate levels (80-85 dB) in a rel. hard middle sized room.
hanshhh

Showing 2 responses by dopogue

dopogue
1,773 posts
 
Thanks, Richard, although you overstated the wattage of my SET monoblocks (actually 12 wpc). They have driven the Ref 3s with no problems or clipping or over 4 years. Another friend who heard mine bought a pair of the same amps from the designer/builder. I'm also using the Gallo subwoofer amp on the speakers' second voice coils, so the SETS don't have to deliver the goods below about 42 Hz.

The amps do have huge Magnequest trannies and I think this contributes strongly to their ability to control the Ref 3s. They have three tubes per side -- 845 outputs, EL34 (or KT77) drivers, and 6N7 (or ECC31) inputs. Solid state rectification. I listen at fairly moderate volumes, but in a quite large room (18x40'). Good luck, Dave.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
Hans, my amps were designed and built by a friend who is no longer in my area. There are only 3 pairs in existence as far as I know. They are by no means "commercial" products and were constructed on Mapleshade maple platforms, like a glorified breadboard design. So everything is out in the open and they're not safe around children or pets. Dave
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