Low output gain amplifier for ZU 101db Efficient speakers


I am thrilled with my new Rogue RP-5 preamp. However, like I mentioned before, the tube Hiss is really loud (I can hear back of room). It’s a smooth, non noisy hiss. I chatted with Rogue and they are sending replacement tubes but guess it’s due to my Nuforce STA200 amp with output gain of 34db. I was told that was quite high for having such efficient speakers. Rogue told me they test their equipment on high efficiency Klipsch speakers and the RP5 is quiet.

Anyway, I have attenuators coming today to help until I now find a power amp. I would love to have an Atma-Spere amp, however, they are too pricey for my budget (even used). Maybe a used Firstwatt f3 or these Quicksilver monoblock amps that are made for high efficient speakers http://quicksilveraudio.com/products/horn-mono/

The lower priced Decware amps look nice, plus they have gain settings.

For those who own high efficiency speakers with a tube pre, any other options? I really hate to switch out the RP-5 because it has all the functions available on the remote and it sounds great.


aberyclark
I will second the Decware amps.  My mini torii is powering some 92db Ref 3A de Capos  plenty loud and the best sound for 4 watts

I also have a Grommes PHI26  2 watts in triode and 6 in pentode and have used it on the de capos and some klipsch Quartets  great sound and it drives them well even at low volumes
well it's not sub worthy but with the de capos good for me

the decware has a line out for a sub or use it as a preamp

Look at things logically, a horn speakers worst friend is noise, and you have too much gain from the pre and the amp, maybe even the source.

Get rid of the one you think has more noise, the tube pre or the ss amp.
And replace it with a lower or zero gain item that is quiet.

Or you could be back where you started, if you replace a quiet high gain item with noisy low gain item.

Cheers George