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Recommend tube amp for $3.5K used

I'm going to make one significant upgrade this spring, and am considering a used tube amp in the not to exceed $3.5K range. I'm not sure if I should go with a moderate/high powered push-pull (Berning ZH 270 or various VAC, ARC, etc) or a lower powered SET amp (Art Audio, Cary, etc...). Musical tastes range from rock (Paul Westerberg, Pete Yorn, Springsteen) to Dianna Krall, Lyle Lovett, Jack Johnson, some classical, etcetera.

I see a lot of people bi-amping... but is that really necessary with highly efficient speakers (95dB @ 8 ohms)?

My speakers (Silverline Sonata II's) and Joule Electra LA 150 preamp are keepers, so recommendations should have good synergy with these components.

I want good dynamics, solid bass, air, soundstage, detail, while remaining fatigue-free. Yes... I know I'm asking for the moon.
128x128pdreher
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
If 100 wpc is what you are looking for then I strongly suggest the McIntosh 2102. It can be found used in your price range.
ghunter's avatar
ghunter
164 posts
 
I have an ARC VS110 and it meets all of your criteria and is right in your price range. I haven't heard anything under $10k that would make me want to upgrade. BAT would be a good alternative to also consider.
jhorowitz128
37 posts
 
Rogue M-150 Monoblocks. 150 watts Ultralinear, ~100 watts triode. Can be had for around $3k used. Has the qualities you're looking for.
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
If you wanr solid bass, you may just need to Bi-amp to get the best results, I have an Aragon 4004 and it gives great bass, although my top amp is still solid state I hope to one day try tubes.
jeffreybehr's avatar
jeffreybehr
805 posts
 
Almost any monoamp by Quicksilver will fill your requirements. Probably the 120-watt V4s will deafen you quite happily. QSs ALWAYS sound good and are quite reliable.
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