2. amps-preamps
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What tube amp for starting out?

I am confused of what amp(tube)I should consider as a step up from my ST-70(DYNACO),BROUGHT back to original with modern up to date parts.
I think the sound is very realistic but a bit dead in the mid range.
All other gear is also Dynaco....preamp,tuner.
I AM new to all the many choices now available and love music and want to listen to a presence of the most realism as possible.
groundhog
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
get it right the 1st time...the mac 275
keithr
1,306 posts
 
Cary V12 or six pacs would be a good choice.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,290 posts
 
one more - Audio Research VT130
Post removed 
jax2
3,031 posts
 
If I had any component that was "dead in the midrange" it would not be in my system very long. Boy, if you don't have the midrange right, then it will be very easy to find an amp that does better. I heard a friend's modified Dynaco many, many years ago and was very impressed with it, but couldn't comment beyond that. Have you tried rolling the tubes with various different brands? Could you have some bad tubes in there that are holding it back?

As far as a replacement, as Tvad points out, you might want to post the speakers you are using in order to get more informed input on the subject. Are you intending on keeping the other Dynaco components? The price of the "most realism possible" can be very high indeed. Also, what you find to be "realistic" may be different from what another person finds that way. You should probably also consider stating a budget, or you will get suggestions from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

Marco
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