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Tube Amp Questions

Hello all!

I've decided to build my system around my Thiel CS 3.7 speakers. Currently, I'm using an ARC LS-7 tube line-stage (purchased just 3 weeks ago) feeding my old Denon PMA-2000 IVR integrated. Sources are laptop running Tidal & Roon, as well as Denon 2900 CD/SACD player.  Musical tastes are varied, but I listen mostly to classic rock, the blues, classic jazz & Latin/bossanova. 

My questions are regarding tube amps. One, in real-world experience, are they really that labor intensive to maintain & operate?  Two, the particular amp im considering is an ARC VS110. According to ARC, it draws 400 watts at idle, 620 at rated output & 900 maximum. How big of an impact does running an amp like this have on an electric bill? 

These are newbie questions, I know, but after a really long time as an admirer of the "High-End", I've finally decided to leave "Mid-Fi" behind, albeit by going the vintage/pre-owned route. 

Thanks for any input or reccomendations!

Arvin


arvincastro
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,529 posts
 

Interesting dweller-


which loudspeaker did you move to from the CS 2.4SE ?

Happy Listening!

roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
New York Audio Labs NYAL Moscode 150 or 300. Superb sounding tube/MOSFET amps designed by George Kaye. Available on the second-hand market for quite reasonable prices!
m-db's avatar
m-db
1,038 posts
 
The listing I posted is sold! My bad, but you get the idea. 
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 

You didn't specify a budget but given the ARC option you mentioned, I assume you're looking for something in the $2K price range. With that in mind, there are lots of options out there if you're willing to go used, maybe even an older Krell or Mark Levinson, something that can handle a 2 ohm load without breaking a sweat.

How's your current 80wpc Denon managing such demanding speakers?

arvincastro's avatar
arvincastro OP
121 posts
 
@kalali  

Well, the Denon doubles to 160 watts @ 4 ohms, so it works ok.  Truth be told, I got the speakers at such a good price locally that I'm starting with them as the building block and going from there.

The ARC VS110 I offered on went to someone else, so...in hind sight, it was prob for the better as the majority of feedback I've gotten from here as well as from friends is that SS is a better option for Thiels.  

You're right:  I'm shopping in the $2K - $3K range.  There are two options that are catching my eye right now, a Krell KST-100 & a Pass Labs x150.  Both are Class A for some of their range, then switching to Class A/B.  

My concern now is my ARC LS-7 line stage.  How do I know if it will "match" these (or any other) amplifiers?

Arvin
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