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Is there such a thing...

as an KT88/6550 based tube that sounds similar to the midrange of an 845 tube? I was listening to a friends setup that uses the Unison Smart 845 amp and was blown away by the midrange. Is there any way I can come close to this sound without buying a 845 based amp and high efficiency speakers? More specifically, what 6550 based tubes, interconnects, etc.

Take a look at my updated system and tell me what you think.
Thanks
delliott
audiokinesis
2,737 posts
 
I agree with Herman's suggestion that you give the Unison amps a try on your speakers if possible. Your speakers are certainly in the ballpark.

There are many 845-based amps that I'm not familiar with (the Unison being among them), but among those that I am familiar with I think there are several that would work well with your speakers, assuming you aren't looking for rock-concert SPL's.

Duke
delliott OP
6 posts
 
Herman & Duke
Your insight is greatly appreciated. I think I'm just going through denial.

I know the 845 will be able to play my speakers but I'll be giving up a little bottom end for that midrange I'm craving. I told myself that the Aronovs will be my last amplifier, they did everything I wanted them to do until I heard those 845's.

I'll see what I can work out with my friend or maybe see if I can find a pair at a local hifi shop that I can demo.

Thanks
D
bartokfan
664 posts
 
Agree, there may some things the 845 SET amp does, but at a compromise on other things. Such as how are the bass/highs compared to my KT90 amp? Besides will the 845 amp deliver the same soundstage on my Thor speakers as my KT90/push pull? In all things audio, there is compromise. From what i know the KT88 would be close to the 845 in the mids. But then expect more roll off in the highs/bass vs the KT90 tube. I've heard the KT88 in 3 auditions and didn't care for it.
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