Running a DAC/pre direct to an amp, especially class D, can sound a bit dry and cold. I'm willing to bet if you put a tube preamp that is a bit warm blooded, may be a Conrad Johnson or older ARC model, you'll get that element that you feel you're missing. Regarding hybrids, I can recommend a Vincent SP-331 or SP-331 MKII for a bit more money. It has tubes in the input stage and delivers 150wpc into 8 ohms and doubles down to 300wpc into 4 ohms. Very underrated amp for its price.
Tube amps and heat
I have 2 systems in play. #1 PrimaLuna Dialogue amp with a Mytek Brooklyn DAC using Tidal. # 2 BelCanto Ref 600 Mono's same Mytek and Tidal. I like the PrimaLuna slightly better. More separation and just the right amount of bass. The Bel Canto is very close but ever so slightly missing something, maybe in clarity separation. Since I live in AZ using the PrimaLuna with 14 tubes is difficult (HEAT). Question --- Is there am amp the will give me the sound of the PrimaLuna tube and not generate as much heat, something like a hybred. Or can I put in the BelCanto system a tube pre amp/hybred and get the tube benefit on that system as well. I've been using the PrimaLuna system during the winter, however we are starting to warm up here. 90+ this weekend and I'm afraid I'll have to shut down the PrimaLuna for 6 months or so. Suggestions anyone. BTW I just tried a Aesthetix Calypso Pre with the Bel's and didn't like the sound. I could live with it, but it's not what I'm looking for.
Thanks
gary
Thanks
gary
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- 23 posts total
- 23 posts total