@chenry Unfortunately, this unit is an integrated whose preamp section is not versatile enough for my needs. Also, its tubes won't deliver the current needed to handle the low impedances thrown up by my Legacy speakers. Seems the only tube amps likely to do this are the big ARC separates and the BATs with their monster output tubes. So I will be looking for a deal on one of those while pondering whether to just cave and go SS after all. Some are reputed to sound rather tube-y, or at least will operate in Class A to 40-50W.
Tube amps under $7500
Ready to experiment with combinations never before (or not recently) tried. Step one requires a tube amp. Now looking at Prima Luna EVO 400 which sells for 5K. Any other tube amps I should consider in this price/feature range? Must come in silver with balanced input. For pairing experimentally with various tube and SS preamps. Efficient 4 ohm Legacy speakers (and the room/setup) are the constants.
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Balanced is not differentially balanced. I am pretty certain that BAT is differentially balanced and I am not sure about ARC. My guess is not. Only makes a difference if your preamp is differentially balanced. True you can beat some speakers into submission with higher power, but you will not be getting the most from these tubes amps. It is not just impedance but also swings. |
I have a room with separate and a simple room that I have tried some integrated amps. Right now I prefer the simple room. I stumbled on the Audio Hungary a50i and really love this amp and see no need to move on. It plays any type of music I throw at it. Can’t say that for the Conrad Johnson cav 45s2 even though that is a wonderful amp for certain types of music. I tried the ARC and BAT and others but just wasn’t for me. There is a 75 watt Audio Hungary balanced a75i on US Audiomart for $3800 retail $9000. There is something very special about class A with tubes. |
@paulcreed the Audio Hungary does sound fascinating, but what speakers are you using with it? Mine need big wattage, big amperage, and only sound good at >80dB. |
I would stay away from 75 watt tube amp then. I’m using a Reference 3a reflector and Joseph Audio Pulsar. The 3a’s play just fine, sometimes I would like a little more power with the JA. Both are very enjoyable with 50 watts. If you need power and current and want tubes may want a preamp and mono blocks. Tubes can get expensive and heat in summer months can be an issue. Needing big tube power makes it tricky. |
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