Member's recommendations for tube amplification

If you'd like to go with a SET amplifier with some power, then the 805 based amps should be high on your list.  The Cary gets lots of praise though I haven't heard it.  I do own the JAS Array 2.1 which has a built-in passive line stage than can be bypassed.  I usually run the amp directly with a Consonance Droplet 5.0 and am quite pleased with the transparency and detail.  It's certainly not a warm or lush sound but it has a directness, a palpability that makes most other amps seem opaque and under-involving in comparison.  It also uses a pair of 300B so they are in there affecting the sound as well.  JAS also makes a pair of monoblocks using 805s with 2a3s.  And Antique Sound Lab has the Explorer 805 which Stereophile reviewed some years ago.  The Psvane 805 are pretty good and affordable at about $250/pr and a big step up from the stock Shuguangs but are bettered a bit by the vintage RCA/GE 805s.  Be aware though that 805 tubes get very hot and would be dangerous to kids and/or pets.  Best of luck with your choice!

David, please let us know how the Volti speaker compared to the DI.  Which one would be your keeper if only one could be kept? I assume the DI, since you did not purchase the Volti? 

What Atmasphere is saying. 

GO to eBay and but the Lafayette KT-550 PP amp and convert to EL tubes and be done with your search.

Happy Listening.

@grannyring   These two speakers make me feel like talking about light.
 

The Rivals remind me of that late afternoon glow from the sun that’s warm, soft, golden hued and alluring. A wonderful time of the day. Existential happiness.

The Double Impacts remind me of daytime sun on a tropical island in the middle of the Pacific, an hour after that mid-afternoon shower has passed through. The atmosphere has been cleansed, the wetness glistens, the sunlight is direct and clear, shadows are short. Realization of a living, breathing and vibrant planet.

I'll post more on the Audiogon thread related to the Volti Vittora. 

I thoroughly enjoy both speakers.

David,

Well your writing is wonderful. Beautifully communicated and so enticing. Well said sir.