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Tube amp for Reference 3A - SET or push-pull?

Just now diving into the world of vinyl and tubes. I have just purchased a turntable and am now looking to purchase speakers and a tube amp. I've pretty much settled on the Reference 3A MM de capos after hearing them for an audition.

I don't listen to much jazz or classical, mostly alt-rock (new order, love rockets, david bowie) and downtempo electronica (Tosca, Thievery Corp).

I know next to nothing about tube amps but I am planning on getting an integrated and spending about $1500 - $2500.

I like the idea of a Triode but I am wondering if push-pull with higher power is better for dynamics on this type of music? I barely understand the difference other than I read the Triode amps don't put out many watts on the dollar.

Thanks in advance.

Also, where can I find a primer/FAQ on hifi tube amps?
cbcarbaj
grinnell
1,075 posts
 
I'm using my de capos with a Primaluna PL2 w/el34 and love the sound.

Also used it with a Vista Audio I84 15wt class a PP and almost got rid of the Primaluna.

I have read good reviews of this with set like 300B but havent had the $$$ to take the plunge
zmanastronomy's avatar
zmanastronomy
738 posts
 
I've heard the Almaro A318B hooked to a pair of the DeCappos and it was very nice. Open soundstage with very full clean bass. But... The Decappos aren't known for Rocking. You might want to look at another speaker for that.
meiwan
399 posts
 
I'm a big fan of SET amps, although at your price point you are looking at 30wpc or so max. It depends on the output tubes. KT88 tubes offer the most power for the money, while el34's sound better IMO. With the 3A's you don't need a ton of power unless you play really loud and have a big room. I'm using 30wpc with much less efficient speakers and have plenty of headroom. Note that SET amp watts are roughly equal to 2x SS amps, so 30wpc sounds like 60 wpc in solid state.

I don't think push/pull sound nearly as good, but do give you the power. You might look into models that are switchable so you can have the best of both worlds.
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