Recently sold my hybrid Rogue Integrated and am now looking for a used tube integrated. I'm using Verity Audio Tamino X2 speakers - 89db (and told by Verity that these speakers are easy to drive and do well with Tube amplification). I listen to different genres but I love the soulful sound of a female jazz singer and classical music featuring the cello (looking for a warm midrange I suppose). I have a small room 15x14 (ugh) and listen at fairly moderate levels. Other gear includes a Hegel HD25dac and a Clearaudio Concept TT (Dynavector 10x5 cartridge). I'll probably buy a separate phono stage so the new Integrated amp does not have to include phono.
My ear gravitates toward a lush warm sound, nice extended highs and tight bass. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My budget is $4000 and under. Thanks
Considering Rogers EHF-100 MK2 (no local dealers) or Line Magnetic (dealer is about an hour away). If keeping things a little cheaper on the budget, I thought the Sound Antique AQ1001 Mark II DT or the Rogue Cronus Magnum may fit the bill.
If there should be a used Aronov LS-960i for sale while you are still looking, at its usual modest price range ($1200-$1500) it fulfills your needs with a natural, realistic, impressively musical presentation. The vocal and cello reproduction you mentioned can be glorious with the best recordings. Really good all-around performer which has stood the test of time.
I doubt that in a blind test you could really notice a big diference. They all impart a different character but end of the day it is subjective. I dont mean to rain on the parade, maybe i do?, but all of this becomes pointless until you set it up and hear in your room. . Any well made tube amp would likely scratch that itch. i would buy the one that looks the coolest and is the last one you audition.
Veroman- have you heard any of the listed options or recommendations from others? Are you saying that most would not hear a difference? Not disagreeing just trying to understand the post. Thanks
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