Moving away from tubes. Is this a good idea?

It has been my experience over using tubes for the past 15 years that using small signal tubes (12AX7, 12AU7, 6922, 5751, etc) has been no problem at all. However, I have had problems with output tubes from time to time, and like you, grew tired of all the problems and maintenance. If you think about it, using tubes for what they excel at, voltage amplification, is generally non-problematic, while using them for what they are not good at, current amplification, places the tubes at risk. I love the sound of tubes, so I have a tube preamp that uses tubes for voltage gain. You could also use them in the output stage of CD players and in the voltage gain stages of power amps, and still get some of that tube magic without the inherent reliability problems with tubes.

The Cayin 88T is NOT autobiasing. The Cayin 70T IS autobiasing. They are different models so don't confuse them.

Arthur

Djh, FWIW the transistor amp you are mentioning at the beginning of this thread has marginal power for dealing with a low-efficiency speaker like you have.

A lot has to do with your listening habits in this regard, but if you like to rock out or you like Wagner at realistic levels, you simply will have to come to grips with the understanding that to do so you will need a more efficient speaker, tube or transistor notwithstanding.

From what I have seen, finding a speaker that is easier to drive will be a piece of cake. Here are a couple off the top of my head- the Audiokinesis Stormbringer and the ZU Druid. Neither are very expensive and both are easier to drive than what you have, and both will do nicely with a lower-powered amp (i.e. 60 watts or so), allowing you to consider tubes on a budget again. I doubt either one will be a step backwards either, I've heard them both and they can be very convincing!

I'm currently using Wavelength Custom 45 and Triton Sig 300b. Fabulous amps. I've had Levinson, Tekne, Pass, PS, ARC, BelCanto digitals, etc.

The Jungson was one of the best, most useable pieces I've ever had. Well made, very even tempered with various speaker loads and types,super reliable.

I liked my sfirst one so much that when I got rid of it, I replaced it with another one! For under a K used, it's a steal.

I bought the Sttafs because: a) recommendation from a friend, b) I listened to them at a store (NAD amp) and really liked the sound, c) they are narrow and will not overwhelm the room they are in and d) the price was right.

I do find that they have a "tight" exact nature. You can easily pick out each instrument (even with my 30 year old Pioneer). You do not feel the base in your chest but when the band calls for it it's presence can be startling. It amazes me that these little floor standers can generate that kind of attention. Of course, I have little to compare them with so for now, ignorance is bliss.

My idea is that tubes will soften the presentation, create more warmth and, with the added power, create a more fuller overall sound.

I always wanted to try a tubed amp. Now that I am in the market for an amp I thought this would be the time. I just don't know enough about them yet (been lurking here for some time now and the more I read the less I feel I know). And I want a good powerful amp which, for tubes, cost considerably more.

Whatever I get it will probably be the last amp I buy for quite some time (have any of you's said that before?). So I'm always very appreciative of replies from experenced members here.

Thanks