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Mixing SS and Tubes

I'm thinking about getting into tubes and have read threads about mixing SS amps with tube preamps. What about the other way around? Are there any advantages (or disadvantages) with mixing a ss preamp with a tube amp? I currently have a MAC MA6450 which I was thinking of using for the preamp side and then getting a reasonable tube amp to play around with. If this is worthwhile, any suggestions for the tube amp (< $1000) would be appreciated.

Thanks!
stereomaniac
jwin's avatar
jwin
101 posts
 
I use an ARC Ref 2 and a BAT VK-P10 for my tube preamplification and switch between SS and tube power amps. The ARC Classic 150s and Mark Levinson 333 have different personalities. The SS works best with rock. The Eagles "Hotel California" as recorded live in the "Hell Freezes Over" CD is awesome with the SS amp. The base is incredible. The tube amp is no slouch with base, but it is better with classical music both male and female voices. It is also less fatiguing during LONG listening periods. I know I'm spoiled by such great equipment, but after 35 years in this hobby, I believe the answer depends on the listener's musical tastes. What I can agree with is the musicality of a tube based front end.
elevick
2,638 posts
 
Starting with only part of your system tubed is easiest. If you have a hum or .... it is a lot easier to track down. It is also a lot easier to compare different tubes (rolling) when the rest of the system is solid state. It seems that tube problems/quirks multiply and are impossible to pin down in an all tube system. Currently using a Classe 30 with a Dynaco ST-80 tube amp. My Theta and Audio Alchemy D/A s were every bit as nice as my CAL Alpha and easier to deal with.
south43
386 posts
 
I did have a all tube rig(LS-7,Anthem amp1) but found the bass somewhat lacking. It may have been a mismatch of components. I now have a AE-3(cary) and a Audible Illusions pwr amp(yes they did make a ss amp). Very fine sound these two make. Elevick makes a good point in reference to the tube rolling.
shahens
27 posts
 
Here is my 2 cents... I'm running a Conrad Johnson PF-R SS preamp with Conrad Johnson MV-55 tube amp and the sound is just beautiful.

Shahen
kek23
48 posts
 
I have just bought a AES AE-3 to compliment the Bryston 4bst, and what a dramatic difference a tube preamp made on my system.WOW....its as if I purchased a new system; and to think that this can only get better by tube rolling!
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