2. amps-preamps
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Wanting to try a tube amp.

Looking at  an ARC Ref 110 to go with my Ls28se. Used is fine with me want to keep it under 4k. I only stream thru a node 2i and Audio Mirror iii se. Speakers are GE Triton Refs. Any other thoughts for me? Room is 14 wide 24 deep 8 high. Listen to mainly Pink Floyd, ELP,  and rock in general. Don't play loud, about 75db. I'm already deaf and have a pretty decent noise floor in my head to compete with. Thanks.
128x128knighttodd
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,714 posts
 
Quicksilver mono amps would be a nice fit with the ARC. I've been using QS gear for years and never a hiccup! Point to point wired and made in USA!
http://quicksilveraudio.com/amplifiers/
elliottbnewcombjr
5,505 posts
 
your speakers have the tremendous advantage of having built-in subs with their own amps built in.

According to Raven (millercarbon’s recommendation), discussing their built-in high-pass crossover, bass averages 65% of program content.

That means you can drive your speakers, already high efficiency, with much less power than others.

that’s a nice position to be in, especially when considering tubes.
moofoo
293 posts
 
Try the Audio Mirror Reflections. You got the DAC. Had PL integrated amps and power amps till I got Vlads amps. Auto-bias and you can roll the 6SN and L tubes. Gave me the sound I was looking for. Love em. 
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,815 posts
 
We are agolden ear dealer and we just got in a fantastic trade.un prima luna dialogue hp with kt 150 which give 96 watts the combo sounds fantastic

Dave and troy
Audio intellect nj

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 
@knighttodd,
The range of recommendations vary widely in how they sound. Have you heard many tube amps and can you describe what appeals to you? Both tube type and individual design matter. The difference between great OTL, and different pull pull tube type amps is like comparing a great sports car to a great SUV to a great sedan. All can be great, but which are you looking for? 
Personally, I love the sound of Atma-Sphere OTLs and the M60s would be a great value and plenty for your speakers. Speedy, airy and spacious with beautiful natural tone.
BAT 6C33C designs are proven, evolved and convenient w/auto-biasing. Ballsy bottom end and a slightly darker tonal balance. 
If you are inclined to stick with ARC, I've heard comments from a famous speaker designer about how much better the KT150 is vs. the KT120. Lots has been written on this topic and I'd suggest sticking w/the KT150-based designs if ARC is your cup of tea. IMHE, many ARC power amp owners end up dissatisfied after large investments and move sideways cost-wise to other options that make them happier. ARC built their rep on their preamps for good reason. 
Quicksilver may not look the sexiest, but their owners satisfaction and their longstanding reliability are worth noting.  Cheers,
Spencer
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