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Can 10W 300B tube amp drive Martin Logan Ascent i?

I currently have the Yaqin MS-300C (or Grant Fidelity A-534) integrated tube amp which outputs about 10 Watts. It currently drives a pair of Tekton Lore speakers (98dB) with easy but I'm thinking about getting a pair of Martin Logan Ascent i so just wondering if this low wattage tube amp can drive it. I listen to jazz and pop at a decently loud level.
Thanks,
johncdnt
franz456
24 posts
 
Thanks, Charles1dad.
johncdnt OP
5 posts
 
Thanks for all the inputs. I guess I'll be keeping the Tekton Lore speakers for a while as I'm so addicted to the sweet sound of the 300B tubes. In fact, I just ordered a pair of Shuguang Treasure 300B-Z tubes for the Yaqin.

for Franz456: I also had the Yaqin MS-20L with Gold Lion KT-88 tubes, wonderful mid but the bass wasn't as round and tight as the MS-300C so I would recommend the MC-300C over. 9.5W SET is just as strong as 50W push-pull so don't let the low-wattage fool you. But again, both was driving the Tekton Lore which are very sensitive (rated 95-98dB).
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,249 posts
 
John makes a good point. With higher sensitivity-higher ohm(load) speakers amp quality matters more than amp power watts. I have a very good push-pull amplifier(100 watt ultra linear and 60 watts in triode mode). The PP amp has a bit more bass weight and impact(not dramatic). In all other areas the 8 watt 300b SET is the better more realistic and natural amplifier.It just sounds more like the real thing in your room.

Franz, I believe the 50 watt amp is a much better choice for your Magnaplanars than the low power SET amplifiers. 4 ohm load and mid 80s efficiency just not a good match for this type of SET amplifier.
Regards,
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