2. amps-preamps
  3. 1149977018

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
 
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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