Tube amp forethought


Hello, im researching my retirement two ch audio system and tube amps are in the forefront of my “wants” my plan will be a pair of QUAD ESL’s not sure which just yet

What do i need to know about maintaining a tube amp, like a AudioResearch 120 for starters or other tube amps. Biasing is totally new to me. Tube life and modes (triode, Pentode, UltraLinear) all foreign to me.

im a 40 year hobbiest so im pretty versed, this is just an unknown territory for me, thanx guys !

kgveteran

Tubes amps are crude - they like silver wire.

Near field listening (in a treated room) will give you the best results.

For me - tubes behave well with jazz and classical.

Low watt amps (40 wpc) sound sweet at 85 db (nearfield)

Bias the amp yourself - it’s easy and boosts self esteem.

The amp will appear to sound different every time you turn it on.

Have a solid state rig for rock - loud listening.

Tubes are seasonal - they keep you warm on a cold night.

Tubes look sexy in a dark room.

@jperry +1 - I used a Bedini 25/25 with my Quad 57's for years. The only tube amps I found comparable were the Futterman OTL's (I still have 3). An alternative choice would be a nicely restored Quad 303. The 57's are voltage-limited. They will be damaged with more than 20 volts (50 watts). 
If you are still insistent on a tube amp, the Dynaco ST 70 (either vintage or new) is a good match for the 57's.
I was yet another QUAD ESL/Bedini 25/25 user for years, but if and when I put my QUADS back into service it will be with a Music Reference RM-10. Roger Modjeski used the QUAD as his load when designing that amp. He has offered in in two versions: as a 35/35w Class-A/B, and as a 25/25w Class-A.
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