Pre + Amplifier Recommendation


Hello All,

First let me say I have spent countless hours researching what may or may not be the right combo for me and my listening preferences - the reality is that there are so many options I am likely more confused now than before, though not from a lack of effort.

So, I have Dali Helicon 400's and listen primarily to rock / folk indie primarily, but do listen to most genres. I have a Cary SLI-80 with upgraded tubes and it sounds great, but lacks a bit of power when i want to turn it up and i am wondering if in addition to increased power i could move up the food chain a bit and get something even better, so long as better is not in the five digits.

I prefer tube sound to any solid state I've owned or heard to date, and my primary concern is being engaged in the music not hearing every last detail, thought that is neat as well.

Was thinking maybe a set of used Cary 805AE units, but fear they may not have enough power. VAC ? BAT ? Quicksilver ? Coincident ?

Or should I start over with new speakers as well? Daedalus Argos look pretty cool and are seemingly more efficient, may open up the options on amplification?

Look forward to your suggestions and thanks in advance.
juggernaut850
I don't like low power tubes with high sensitivity speakers,the sound is not heavy or visceral enough for me. I find the combo of a tube preamp with solid state power provides the best of both worlds. If you like to listen loud and FEEL the music as well as hear it ,you might try this combo.
+1 For Mattmiller. I too use a hybrid combo and its the best sound for me by far.
Mattmiller, I would agree and I no longer have the tube amp but I used it as an example that speakers that are very efficient don't require alot of watts to drive them. I currently use 150 watts per channel amp and that sounds even better.
My experience is the polar opposite of what Mattmiller finds. It has been
the low to moderate power tube amplifiers with high efficiency speakers
that are noticeably more convincing and visceral in music communication
and "feel". But we all can recognize and accept that these
differences are expected. I understand why the OP has his preference for
tube power amplifiers. Which ever path is taken there exist many choices.
Juggernaut850 your idea to move to more efficient speakers is a wise one.
Best of luck.
Charles,
You need to go through the trouble of choosing your components. If you don't, you'll never be happy. Here's why:

"10-14-14: Mattmiller
I don't like low power tubes with high sensitivity speakers,the sound is not heavy or visceral enough for me."

"My experience is the polar opposite of what Mattmiller finds."

Its a matter of personal preference. Only you can make the decision.