2. amps-preamps
  3. 1162102915

Warm and Detailed S.S. Amp?

I currently own a Modwright preamp and a Pass Labs X150 amp. I really enjoy these components but, I wish the Pass amp had more warmth in my system. What amps have the warmth of tubes but are as detailed and as controlled as this Pass amp. I can't afford the .5 series of Pass amps. I previously had a CJ MF-200 amp and PV-11 preamp in my system, which was much warmer, but not as clean and detailed. I'm looking to spend about $2K used. Thanks!
jeffjazz
jeffjazz OP
114 posts
 
I did have the McCormack .5 stock amp on have to compare to my CJ MF-200 amp. The McCormack did have some bloom to it, But I still preferred the CJ since it was warmer and just as detailed, and a not as dry sounding from what I remember.
The sound I am looking for is natural warmth, as in live. I'm a musician, and I know what live is! If it errs on one side I'd take slightly too fat over thin. Jusat a little bloom suits me well. The combo Modwright pre, Pass X-150 and my speakers leans too lean :). I was also thinking about a hybrid amp. You think a VanAlstine, or a Butler amp would work?
Thanks again guys!!!
samzx12
1,232 posts
 
Mrtennis I guess you have never heard a good SS amp?
clio09
3,362 posts
 
I'm impressed with the Butler amps. A nice affordable (used) hybrid OTL design. They'll provide some warmth, without sacrificing too much in the process.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
hi sam, the combination of solid state and good is an oxymoron (just kidding). solid state is a miserable state (just kidding, again).

i have heard many solid state amps, but have liked none. all of them sound like transistors. they have no color.

perhaps you can suggest a solid state amp and planar speaker which you feel is an outstanding combination. i will try to lieten to bot together.

i will add, that most amps manufactured in 2006 are unkind to the ear--both tubes and solid state.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
if warmth implies an attenuation in the lower treble, a component cannot be warm and detailed.

so, it boils down to how a word is defined. for me warmth implies subtraction in the treble and also, slightly in the upper mids. too mjuch detail in the aforementioned regions more than offsets any benefit in the lower frequencies. it is the lower treble and upper midrange which can be the cause of listener fatigue.
More to discover