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tube cd player with solid state amp and preamp

will a tube cd player yield a tube sound with a denon receiver as a preamp and a b&k 2 channel amp? I listened to a tube system and I liked the sound of it for 2 channel listening but I dont really have the resources to buy a totally tube system. What I have right now is a solid state Ht system that in my opinion sounds descent for ht and 2 channel listening. If I add a tube cd player will it produce a tube sound or is it a waste of money? any recommendations?
chameleon
samhar
1,048 posts
 
I have an Onkyo NR-905 for H/T, I tried running a Raysonic 168 through the pre amp section with an external 5 channel amp, it sounded better than the Denon 3930 ci I use for H/T but the receiver can't convey that tube sound . Short answer, a waste of money. Is that Pandora's box I hear opening and the sound of the recently infected coughing from within!!!
cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
Chamleon,

Agree with Newbee, that while a tube CDP will add some tube warmth to your system, to get a true tube sound, you're going to need a tube amp. If I was you I would be looking for a used tube integrated amp (check audiogon listings), and add that to your system. Chances are you can get a tube integrated amp for less money than you can get a tube CDP. And you'll definely be closer to the tube sound you're looking for.
hifiharv
351 posts
 
The Cayin 50T tube integrated amp looks very appealing to someone who has little to spend on a tube amp. More tube bang for the buck than getting a CD player.
steuspeed's avatar
steuspeed
501 posts
 
I disagree. Tube amps can lack bottom end and have that tube bloated sound. Tube CD player, DACs and Pre-Amps lend the benefits of tube sound without the downsides you can get with the amps interaction with the speakers.

My system is all tube and the CD player made a big improvement with soundstage, musicality and fatigue. I say go for it.
cleaneduphippy
323 posts
 
"Tube amps can lack bottom end and have that tube bloated sound."

Steuspeed,

I get plenty of bottom end and it's not bloated, out my tube amp. You read your post and it's somewhat contradicts itself. You're saying that tube amps have a "bloated sound", but then you turn around and say that your "system is all tube and the CD player made a big improvement with soundstage, musicality and fatigue." I assume your CDP is a tube one, but are you're saying it induces "fatigue"? I certainly hope not. Hate to say it, but your post seems to say thet tube CDPs sound good, but tube amps sound "bloated and lack a bottom end". Makes me wonder why you have a tube system? Can't tell whether you like tubes or not.
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