2. amps-preamps
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Got the itch again "real bad" for tube mono blocks

OK, my firend is trying out my speakers to decide if he is going to buy a pair that somebody is selling and today he brought over his Rogue M-150 mono block tube amps. I have been interested in buying the Dynaco MKIII mono blocks completely restored since they go for under a grand rebuilt just to try something new. After hearing the Rogues with stock Sovtek tubes, I am again wondering what if. There are a few decent choices like the Sonic Frontiers Power 3 (recently came down in price), of course Audio Research, Quick Silvers, Rogue, Dynaco, etc.

So does anyone have any advise on tube mono blocks in the $1000 price range and then up to $2,000 if I decide to go that far?

My current system, CEC TL-2X transport into Museatex Bitsream modified DAC, Counterpoint SA-5000 tube preamp and
either Counterpoint SA-220 modifed hybrid power amp or John Hillig modified Hafler 220 SS power amp. Right now I am listening to the Alon V MIIs with the Rogues and Carl from Alon (Nola) was right about the Alons and 100+ watt tube amps, really nice.

Thanks and Happy Listening.

bigkidz
phillykid
35 posts
 
I've had the AR VT100 with alon lotus sigs (90db),my friend has the VT 120 mono's on his alon V mk 1 (87db)...both are superb, the VTL has a little more bass and air, the AR has more dynamics,and pacing with all types of music...Happy Holidays...Bill
bigkidz OP
3,414 posts
 
I was looking at the McIntosh 275s, 75 wpc stereo and then I could get a second amp later and switch them to mono. How do these amps compare to the others?
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
Horseface, if you are referring to N802's, the crossover is at 350hz and the disparity in sound between a tube amp on top and solid state on the bottom is vividly evident, and not conducive to good sound. It would be a bad choice to bi-amp with anything other than identical amps. I know, because curious minds want to experiment, so I gave it a try and it was terrible.
horseface's avatar
horseface
222 posts
 

One man's trash is another man's treasure ...
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
listen, listen and listen again. there are alot of products out there. power and voicing are salient issues.

it is hard to recommend any. i too am looking for a tube amp and i have no short list right now.

however, the cary, audio research, rogue, conrad johnson and vtl definitely do not interest me.

i am looking for a more traditional tube sound, like a cj 125. i have no idea who makes such an amp these days.
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