2. amps-preamps
  3. 166972-154522

Beginner looking for guidance into tube sound.

Hello all, I am looking for some input on the best way to add tubes to my current mess. I currently have what I am sure everyone here would consider barely a step up from my parents zenith HI-FI circa 1977. please keep in mind I am lucky if I can afford to look in the window of an actual audio store. 
I currently have a Peachtree nova 300 and a Marantz CD player and a pair of monitor audio silver 500 speakers. A friend gave me a blue sound node 2i also. I have always wanted a tube powered amp. I see these Chinese amps like the Muzishare X7 and Willsenton R8 that have lots of great reviews. Or maybe a tube DAC. Then I see the Black Ice for ss-x. Each having less tubes respectively. Not sure how much that matters but I would think the more tubes the more tube sound one could expect. I would like to be in the $1000. range but would go to $1500 if I had to. My goal is to find the best most cost effective way to enter the tube world.  
johnfritter
johnfritter OP
64 posts
 
@fuzztone Exactly! I mean my intention isn't to just throw my money away but if I can make a minimal investment to get my toes wet, great. I don't mean I have throw away cash. I have been seeing a few Chinese amp options that look like a guy could unload at minimal loss if needed.   Yet might afford him a good taste of what tubes could add.
Also as I stated I would be open to the applications of tubes as DACs or tube buffers that fall within my budget as well. Just looking for options hopefully from experience. 
I have come to realize this is a high end often hi dollar site. I have found the best information here vs others. Yes I may be out of my league here but I feel the abuse I will get will be worth the info gained! I apologize if  anyone feels I am wasting time and space here.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
Used pair of Quicksilver monoblocs here.
Use the pre out on your Peachtree.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisaa875-quicksilver-mid-mono-tube
These amps are worth inquiring about, very highly regarded. 
Need to know the age and the power when using KT77's.
If a purchase is possible, you would be set for a long time.



lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
OP, the only way to capture a real tube experience is to use a tube amp. You may not notice much change by swapping in a tube CDP. Although I own one and it sounds wonderful, I think you're looking for more.


johnfritter OP
64 posts
 
@lowrider57 Thank you as I obviously missed these while surfing the classifieds. I messaged the member that has them listed waiting for response. Is there anything I should be aware of with these amps, questions I need to make sure and ask? Any certain vintage of these stand out over the others or "quirks" specific to this model?
Again Thank you.
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,579 posts
 
"...Used pair of Quicksilver monoblocs here..."

Those are excellent amps, I have a pair myself. 
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