I was able to take home the tube amp I have been interested in (BAT VK-76SE) and connected it yesterday. Could only play a couple of albums due to relatives company coming over (with small children). My speakers are borderline capable of being driven well by a tube amp (Dynaudio Contour 60i) at 4ohm and 88 db efficiency, so this is a real test for me. Thus far the vocals and string instruments are heavenly and the music just floats from the speakers with wonderful spatiality, a bit better than my solid state amp (BAT VK-255SE). However, the slam and grip that I am accustom to with the SS amp was not there, and I miss that. Well, a list of albums for tonight will be the real test. I'll be using some very familiar music. It will include plenty of low frequency energy and mid-bass punch. If this amp can cut the mustard than I will likely make the purchase. If not, I will keep what I have (which is a wonderful amp, too). Though I do want that lovely midrange sound the tube amp gave me yesterday, I just can't give up on the slam, grip and energized room for the total listening experience.
We shall see...
