Can we use TUBE PREAMP with SS AMP ?

I also use a tube pre-amp with a SS amp and agree with above posts-- excellent combinations can be found.

Re: Goone's question: I think a SF Line 2 would VERY likely be an excellent pre-amp for the Classe' amps. The Line 2 is quite neutral (not warm or euphonic), and it should go well with the somewhat warm? sounding Classe' amps. (I've used a Line 2 for near 4 years). Cheers. Craig

Check the Krell manual or with Krell. I had a FBP200C and remember that there is something inside the amp that must be switched before you can use a tube preamp. It has been awhile since I owned the amp, but I would check first.

Currently using ARC LS25 with BRYSTON 4BST balanced, very nice combo, smooth mids, tight bass, plenty of slam.

Goone,

I used a VK30 with a Classe DR8 amplifier and was very happy with the match. I decided another DR8 was in order and biamped, shortly after I had a party and being somewhat impaired I was too liberal with the gain on the preamp. Not sure if anyone knows this, but it costs $400 to replace the inductor, capacitors, and resistors in Martin Logan Quest Z crossovers. To be 16 and trapped in a 40 year old's body...

Anyway..about the sound. Please bear in mind my front end components are likely different than yours, my speakers are planars (Martin Logan Quest Z's), my listening room has it's own characteristics, and my taste in music may be quite different as well. Feel like a lawyer with all those disclaimers. The Classe amps have always provided plenty of current and do a great job driving marginal loads but can be a little bright/analytical when paired with the wrong preamp. I used a ARC SP9 then SP14 with the Classe and enjoyed the experience, but it was still not quite right. The PRAT was off-kilter. The BATVK30 was a God-send; smooth, liquid, toe-tapping musical. The Classe amp still provided the slam and speed I love, but the mids and highs were very nicely smoothed out by the VK30. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RUN SINGLE-ENDED INTERCONNECT BETWEEN A TUBE PREAMP AND A SOLID STATE AMPLIFIER! I run Goertz balance interconnect, the only way to go is balanced. The BAT-Classe synergy was obvious but really came into it's own when I added Transparent speaker cable between the amp and speakers. I would not hesitate to pick up a VK30, helluva deal and a great match with SS. Jeff

I am using a Krell FPB 200 with a AE-3 tube line level pre-amp. There is a section in the Krell User’s Manual which will explain the use of Tube Equipment with their amps. An internal jumper/switch needs to be changed in the amp before use with tube equipment. I called Krell told them what I wanted to do and they faxed me the instructions. The instructions are easy to follow and it only took 5 minutes. I have not had any problems and am very happy with the combination of tubes and SS equipment.