2. amps-preamps
  3. 162633-147523

Should I got full tubes or stick with hybrid amps?

I currently have a Jolida 1501. I like it but I think I have upgraditis. I originally bought it (hybrid) because I’m really sensitive to highs (get a headache). It’s been good to me and I can listen without fatigue.

To help with upgraditis, I just bought a Yamaha AS801 to try out and although it definitely sounds good and has nice detail it is creating a little fatigue for me. I’m still in the break-in period so this may smooth out a bit.  (I definitely like having bass/treble controls).

Thinking about picking up a full tube amp or another hybrid for comparison. I don’t know much about other manufacturers of tubes/hybrids.

What’s the difference (sonically) between a hybrid and a full tube amp? Any recommendations?

Thanks!!
soundchasr

Showing 4 responses by russ69

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,566 posts
 
"...How would the Musical Fidelity compare with the Yamaha AS801?..."

I would recommend a M5si or a M6si. Tons of power, more than their wattage rating suggests. It would be a giant step up from mass consumer products.

P.S. I have heard a number of Musical Fedelity integrateds and they all sound great. I run an M3si with a pair of Martin Logan electrostatics and it sounds great. It replaced a 6K 400 WPC McIntosh amp.
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,566 posts
 
What loudspeakers? We can't help you if you don't help us.  
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,566 posts
 
I have never heard ONIX loudspeakers but the web says they are 88db efficient and warm sounding. I think I would dump the tubes and go solid state, maybe a Musical Fidelity integrated. Low efficiency and warm loudspeakers don't really cry out for tubes. 
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,566 posts
 
"...Those Musical Fidelity amps are considerably more expensive than the 801...... I'm sure they sound great. :-)..."

Yes but you will just be breaking into the first rung of real hi-fi sound. They are cheap for what they deliver.    
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