2. amps-preamps
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Tube Monoblocks in the 5-7K Range

Looking at purchasing a new pair of tube monoblocks to drive a pair of 90 db hybrid electrostatics that I'm now purchasing and would love some recommendations. I've got my eyes on either the Carver Cherry 180's or the Primaluna DiaLogue Sevens, so if anyone has compared these two it would be appreciated, and I am open to other suggestions.

I listen to a variety of music, tending towards a lot of classical string music(20th Century British) and modern electro-acoustic stuff on my digital front end, but tend towards singer/songwriter, female jazz vocals and classic 70's rock on my TT. I am basically a midrange person, but am attracted to the PrimaLuna because of the ability to switch from triode to ultralinear on the fly.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts
scotlynn
mechans
3,048 posts
 
I would think the modern sounding Carver Monoblocs are just what the doctor ordered for this situation. I would definatley give them a shot.
scotlynn OP
10 posts
 
I've added the Quicksilvers onto my shortlist. From what I've read they seem sonically similar to the PrimaLunas - anyone ever compared the two?
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
I am not sure I would call Rogue SS sounding. Not my Stereo 90 at least. Where I find the Rogue does have characteristics similar to SS amps is in its bass extension, which is excellent.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
" I read the stereophile review of the Rogues and the only thing that gave me pause was the fact that the reviewer says he could have sworn it was a ss amp. That's also my concern with the Carver."

I've heard the Rogue's and there is no mistaking their sound as SS. Warm, lush, 3D imaging; listen for yourself. Tube rolling plays a major roll in the Rogue sound. As for the Carvers, I have not heard them, but the user reviews are all outstanding.
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
I have my eye on the Carver's, too. Never heard (or the Rogue) 'em but I'm tempted nonetheless. The smaller, stereo amp--Black Beauty 20, I think--is supposed to be astonishing at its price and remarkably powerful for its rating. The Cherry 180s should be that much better. I hear the price is jumping $600 on Jan 1, to $7,990, FWIW.
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