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Selling off Tubes for Solid State, A Cooler Love Story?

I've always sought out Primaluna gear as my end all be all gear. I started with an integrated, then went to separates and have been very, very happy. What has given me such good sound, is also causing the room temperature to be somewhat annoying. Being in a little shoe box room of 10x15, I've had to result to opening a window, which is becoming tiresome. 

The heat from just the KT88's is causing me to considering going solid state, which will be in preparation for the Summer in my tiny upstairs room. I'd like to possibly get a second amp for the summer months, but am not sure where to start with solid state amps. Do I pick up a BHK? Do I go all in on a used Ypsilon or Dartzeel? What did you look for in a solid state amp and where should I look? I BHK I could test drive at home, but a used Ypsilon I wouldn't able able to try and would just have to pull the trigger. Any advice or guidance is appreciated. 

128x128j-wall
gruvejet
10 posts
 

I don’t have a lot of experience w many amps/gear, but I’m running a Krell Duo 300 XD class A 300 wpc. The unit stays cool the entire time at high DB levels pushing my Forte’s. The unit does have fans in the back, which I’m sure is frowned upon, but I can’t even hear them when the room is completely silent and I’m right near the amp. They also have an app to check the heat of the amp. Not really sure why they offered that for consumers. 
 

As another option, I’m selling a pair of Jeff Rowland class D monoblocks (250 wpc). Zero heat and amazing build and look. Something like that would work perfect. 

cakyol's avatar
cakyol
940 posts
 

Most ss amps will do. Just do NOT buy a class A design 😄

mglik
911 posts
 

I was a dedicated tube guy for decades.

Because of the heat in the Summer and speakers that needed more power, I started looking at SS. My conclusion and that of the Forum is that there was only two amps that could satisfy a tube guy-Bakoon and AGD. I now own a Bakoon headphone amp and AGD Audion mono blocks. And ultimately, AGD over Bakoon for my main system. Both are unique and proprietary technologies. Both give a clear window that is addicting but I prefer AGD for the overall SQ and the physicality over the Bakoon. Dartzeel and probably some other very expensive amps may be better in some ways but I would never change. The AGDs are my destination amps.

oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948
503 posts
 

@OP The BHK250 is a hybrid class A amp.  Tube input stage and SS output stage.  It runs warm, but not hot.

My listening room room is 13x11x8.  I am quite happy with mine.

j-wall's avatar
j-wall OP
372 posts
 

@oldschool1948 thanks for the tips adding it to my wishlist. 

 

@mglik AGD is added to my research list. 

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