What is Moving From Solid State to Quicksilver Mid Monos Like?

Hi Fastcat,

My DNA-125 was all stock, and yes, I agree that that amp in stock or modded form is an all around better option that Mid Monos. Though I did not have that amp for long, I did enjoy it, but the higher power QSs sound more like music to my ears. Btw, the Mid Monos have had 2-3 different iterations:

V1: Beefy output transformer, small power transformer, and one bias adjust pot.

V2: Two small transformers and one bias adjust pot.

V3: Beefy power transformer, small output transformer, and 2 bias adjust pots (this is his latest version I believe).

V3 allows for better bias matching and tube life, which is ideal imo.

I have a pair of QS Mid-Monos, the latest version with the 2 bias pots, with EL34, that I regularly rotate in my system. Currently they drive a pair of Harbeth 40.3 XD. I use new Tung-Sol tubes with which I replaced the tubes that they came with the units. The other tubes are those who came with the amps. I bought the Mid-Monos used.

The QS have no problems driving the Harbeth in my medium sized room.

Here’s how I would describe the sound with the Harbeth in my room.

There is plenty of resolution, tonality, and warmth. Not much punch in terms of dynamics but an addictive and intoxicating mid-range. Bass is fine but a little loose. Overall, the Mid-Monos are excellent amps, a great deal, even a greater deal if found used, I think I paid around $1300 for mine, made in USA, and Mike Sanders is an email or a phono call away to answer your questions. I got a response to a question that I had in an email in less than a day.

There is nothing better imo to be able to communicate and get support from the designer himself.

I did just the opposite (e.g. went from quicksilver monos to SS) and have never looked back.  Besides the constant repairs needed for the “quickie’s”, the sound from my McIntosh / Threshold / Ayre amps were superior in comparison.  While I would consider a tube line stage again, I would never again consider having  a tube amplifier.  That said, from what I hear, current tube amps are much more stable.  

People talk about repairs on tubes...I have owned tube amps for 40 years and never had to repair one. WTH? 

If you run the tubes the amps and circuit was designed to run with day-1, and you keep an eye on the bias, turn them off/on properly in sequence - some people will argue good tube amp(s) will last longer, and can be lower cost to repair - if they ever need repairs.  Particularly when there are no aging and cracking circuit boards inside. While I own and use both, replacement parts are easier to find for my tube amps than my Class A solid state amps as learned over time. Choose well!