2. amps-preamps
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Tube newbie - recommendations?

I've finally got my primary system (all SS) at equilibrium and would like to set up a second system for casual listening and explore the world of tubes.

I already have a pair of B&W DM601S3 speakers I would like to build around. Music will be broadway, jazz and some classical, possibly satellite radio in the future. Looking for a fun, lively and colorful sound.

Listening room will be open kitchen / dining area (~20x20, low ceilings). Volume levels will not be high but should be enough to drive the B&Ws comfortably.

Some extra components laying around that I can pick and choose from:

NAD 5000 CD player
Carver CT3 Pre-amp / Tuner
Carver TFM15cb amp

I only need one, maybe two inputs, no phono. Already have some Kimber PBJs and biwire spkr cable laying around. Would you use the CD and Carver Pre and get a tube amp or perhaps a tube integrated or hybrid like a Jolida? How little money (<$500, used ok) can I put in to this system and get a nice intro to tube sound? Any recommendations would be much appreciated...
devsung
drjjpdc
80 posts
 
I agree Triangle, the 35 watt Cayin integrated is a hell of a piece. But allow me another name in this discussion, Quicksilver. As a B&W owner, and a new Quickie owner, let me add that they straddle the SET and push-pull sound. They have none of the overipe sound I sometimes hear in SET's and the ballsy sound of push pull. The V4's will be my last amp (probably more than you wish to spend but the whole Quickie sound is found in less pricey models).
kt_88
242 posts
 
I agree with Drjjpdc. There is just something about the Quicksilver sound that is different from any other push-pull amp I have ever heard. Quicksilver amps also alllow you to roll many different tubes in them, which many of the big name amps don't allow. Lately there has been a ton of used Quicksilver on agon. So now they migh become scarce for awhile. I myself have owned and or listened to most of the Quicksilver line and have heard most of the big name tube amps as well. But there is just something special about the Quicksilver sound.

Oh, if you venture into tubes you might find that your SS system turns into that kitchen dining area system :) The tubes will blow you away!!!

88
drjjpdc
80 posts
 
Thanks KT88. One other thing about Quicksilver, they are also the tube amps with former solid state amps folks in mind (not in sound but ease of use). Just the biasing of tubes alone by pushbutton without bending over or unscrewing any amplifier parts is a huge plus.
kt_88
242 posts
 
Drjjpdc,

If you have been a Quicksilver fan for long then you probally know that most of the amps are self biasing. A tube rollers dream!

88
drjjpdc
80 posts
 
I have been a fan but could never afford tube amps due to my listening requirements. But when I recently changed my speakers to a pair that utilizes a woofer cabinet and separate midrange/tweeter (the Sforzando JL1, a private production model, with more than a few still available, from North Carolina), I was able to consider tubes on the satellites and move my high current kickass SS amp to the woofer modules. To say I am ecstatic is an understatement.
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