2. amps-preamps
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To all tube lovers.......

To all the tube lovers out there: If you COULD NOT listen to a tube amp and you HAD to go solid state or digital, what amp would you get to replace your tubes? I've always been a tube guy. Every amp I've ever owned has been a tube amp. However, I may get a new speaker that is 88 db @ 4 (maybe 6), ohm. If so, I must get a higher powered amp. Keep in mind, I"m not just looking for any amp. Preferably 100 watts or more. Solid state? Digital? I've heard wonderful and not-so-wonderful feedback on Nuforce and Spectral in the digital camp.

I just don't want to regret getting out of tubes just so I can change speakers.
devilboy
polk432
1,142 posts
 
McIntosh 7270. I have 85dB speakers and my Cary CAD120s drives them just fine. You WILL miss tube sound. Happy listening. The problem is your speakers. Happy listening.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
I've got a Mac as a back up. Threshold and Pass Labs are awesome also. Look for class A rated.
samujohn's avatar
samujohn
291 posts
 
Why would you buy a speaker that needs solid state? What amp was driving it at the demo that so impressed you?
rhljazz
1,253 posts
 
I am enjoying the W4S ST500 which is something I didn't expect to be saying. It's not exactly tubes but it's not exactly SS either. Besides it sounding great (no SS glare), it is reasonably priced. No hum, no hiss, no heat, no maintenance, no other annoying sounds.
I bought the W4S to see how it would do on the N802's and figured it would be a good backup amp if one of the tube amps went down (it's small and light, easy to pack in a closet). I have this system set up for 3 months and I might leave it this way till summers over and go back to the VAC/ESP setup once the weather cools off.
thorman
1,262 posts
 
I would jump on the Threshold SA-1's on this site right now......Built like a tank and sound like a dream......
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