2. amps-preamps
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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
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
OP, 
I built a system over the past year. I have Quicksilver and love it. It is extremely well made and beautiful sounding. I'm a huge fan.

But given the constraints you mentioned, I would push my own prejudice aside and affirm a couple other points made which I think take precedence.

First, the speakers are extraordinarily important, and if you were able to start building your system toward tubes, you should probably look for a bit more power than those used Quicksilver monos. But maybe not. I have 87db speakers with 60wpc monos and it's plenty of power.

Still, let's say you're ok with sticking with your speakers. What would make the most difference for $1-1.5k? I have to think it would be a good tube preamp or a tube DAC. Quicksilver and other tube preamps are possibilities; or Orchid MHDT Dac; or others. The point is that you want the tubes early in the signal path, first. Later, you can get tube amps. But before then, DAC or preamp. Gotta make sure the preamp and Peachtree will play nice together.
johnfritter OP
62 posts
 
@rickallen81 that's my plan I am just trying to figure out the best way to get the best taste. So far I have gotten some good ideas of things to look into. I have never owned any type of tube component so its all new. I don't know anyone who dose so this is why I am where I am at this point.
johnfritter OP
62 posts
 
@hilde45 I was considering the Orchid or possibly the Black Ice Glass FX. The used Quicksilvers are local pick up only so a no go. I just wasn't sure how much of the tube effect would come thru with just a tube or two. Nice thing there is I can get those with a trial period as well as most new stuff. Used doesn't have that option!
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
What would make the most difference for $1-1.5k? I have to think it would be a good tube preamp or a tube DAC. Quicksilver and other tube preamps are possibilities; or Orchid MHDT Dac; or others. The point is that you want the tubes early in the signal path, first. Later, you can get tube amps. But before then, DAC or preamp. Gotta make sure the preamp and Peachtree will play nice together.
For $1K to $1500 you can find a good used preamp. As stated, check the specs so the pre will mate with the Peachtree. Shouldn't be very difficult.





oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
noromance5,770 posts05-24-2021 9:28pmUsed pair of Quicksilver monoblocs here.
Use the pre out on your Peachtree.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisaa875-quicksilver-mid-mono-tube
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

THIS is a good deal.  Pay attention OP.. Very good start and to tell the truth end with.. Flexible well made amps.. A lot of wiggle room for sound change..

Regards
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