Integrated Amp Suggestions for Dynaudio Contour 3.4LE

"Tubes have a slightly different sonic character than transistors. Tubes tend to provide a slightly richer harmonic picture of instruments in the midrange with a slight sacrifice in definition and control at the frequency extremes. Twenty years ago this contrast was more pronounced. Modern transistor amplifiers are far more musical than they used to be and the performance of modern tube amplifiers is less compromised."

http://vandersteen.com/media/files/APJ%20Files/APJ11_Proof.pdf

There are a number of reasons why tubes often give a more liquid sound and sometimes a phat mid-range.  Less so today.  ARC has reduced the number of tubes but hasn't gone all SS.

randy-11

Thanks for sharing the article on amplification components

Brad

Here you go, I hope this helps, You may also call Doug Dale directly at Coda. He is not pushy and he's an honest guy.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/CODA-Technologies-CSiB-Balanced-Integrated-Amplifier-/262694239555?hash=item3d29cbfd43:g:diQAAOSwB09YEoRC
  

Here are the following amps that have a track record of good synergy with Dynaudio; Naim, Belles, Simaudio, Hegel, Plinius and Octave ( tube ).  Dynaudio need current to come alive and sound their best.  The 3.4le are 86db, 4 ohms and rated up to 270 watts/channel into an 8 ohm load.  So conceivably that would be 540 watts into 4 ohms if your amp doubled down.....indicative of the power they can handle.  Obviously your room size, musical genre tastes, etc will dictate.

Of the above recommendations, the Coda is the best choice imo.  I've never heard it, but it seems to have the power ( watts + current ).  Low power tube amps will not be the best choice.   If you go with a tube integrated look at Octave as they have the current necessary for the Dyns.  The pairing is often used at Audio Shows.  Good luck and take your time.  Do plenty of research and audition as much as you can.  Best......

Carmenc:

Really appreciate these suggestions. You've gone above and beyond.

puppyt