2. amps-preamps
  3. 159356-13968

What tube amp for Harbeth 40.1

I am looking for a tube amp for Harbeth 40.1.  I know many suggest SS amp such as Accuphase, Luxman, Hegel, McIntosh ... etc for Harbeth, but I decided to keep it with tube.  I also don’t think I need a lot of power.  I currently have a 8W custom built 300B and had a 18W Almarro 318B, and to me, they sound fine.  However, I think more power will help, and I never know what I missed until I try it out.  Having said that, I don’t think I need crazy power.  Anything 30-80W is good enough for me.  I am 3m away from the speakers, listen to Jazz at avg 83dB.

i have the following short list:
1) PrimaLuna Evo 400 integrated
2) Leben CS600X 
3) Linear Tube Audio Z40

Which one do people like with Harbeth?  Any other suggestion?

Among all qualities, I value holographic presentation the most.  I really like the feeling as if the singer is floating in front of me, if you know what I mean.  And my current 300B do pretty well in this regards, and I read this is what SET amps are good at.  Will I be disappointed with the above?
Thanks.
gte357s
bassdude
493 posts
 
That is... if... you keep your Harbeths.

Given your preferences - if you want to try tubes, you might find you prefer the sound of the Proac D2's driven by the Line Magnetic 518i, or similar.  That combination is closer to what you describe you prefer, especially in an apartment or condo - unless you're prepared to drive the Harbeths with a powerful SS amp.
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
excellent comments bassdude!

i keep my harbeths, proacs and atc's for exactly that lovely contrast in presentation


gte357s OP
281 posts
 
@bassdude
thank you very much for your comments.  Although I already bought a McIntosh 275, I always tempted to buy a SS with greater than 200wpc.  I have an old Adcom and it sounds quite good on the Harbeth.  Would there be any good (vintage) SS amp in $1500 range that you would recommend?  Such as old Luxman, Sansui, Onkyo ... etc?
aj523
373 posts
 
The Harbeth 40.2, the Annie, and 40.3XD have slightly higher sensitivity than the 40.1, 86db vs. 84db, but those newer models have a much higher impedance curve. The curve on the 40.2 stays above 8 ohms throughout almost the entire frequency range even staying around 10-12 ohms which should make it an easier load to drive.  That's why tubes above 50 watts sound glorious. 
gte357s OP
281 posts
 
Just to give an update, after replying on 10/10, I acquired a 200W Sony TA-N77ES.  I need to take back my words.  Among the 8W 300B tube amp, 75W McIntosh 275, and this 200W Sony, I like Sony the most.  After listening for the Sony for a while, then switch to the 300B, some of them sounds good, but I feel something is lacking for many songs.  The 75W McIntosh is better, but feel a bit slow.  The Sony gives more dynamic.  Yes, the vocal is not as sweet, but it is not bad.  Maybe the Sony TA-N77ES is a warm sounding SS.
More to discover