2. amps-preamps
  3. 1216913561

Class D amp with Tube Preamp Combo?

Have you ever tried a good class D/T amp & tube preamp combination? I have read their can be some occasional problems matching these together?

I was thinking of going this way to get the drive, clarity and efficiency of the switching amp combined with the warmth and full body of the tube pre amp.

What setup are you using?

My first post by the way! I have been reading this forum for the last two weeks learning about audio and what to buy for my first serious system.
jaffa_777
kenk168
175 posts
 
Ait,

I think you need to mention that your assessment of the Gilmore amp as compared to the Nuforce was based on experience w/ your particular system where the Nuforce Ref 9SE V2 had issue with noise. I mentioned before that the Nuforce once properly set up, will shine like no others but only IF properly set up. Now, the top of the line Gilmore is based on the ICE power ISP 1000 module of which I have experienced in my previous amps, the Bel Canto 1000. The comparison wasn't even close, the Nuforce was head and shoulder above the Bel Canto (SOLD) and I would think the Gilmore could not be be much different.

Just my $.02.

Kenobi
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Hi Kenk168, I have never experienced noise with the excellent Nuforce Ref 9SE V2. under what circumstances may such noise show up and become a problem?
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
I have never had a noise issue with my V2 SE's either. I will agree that power conditioning and lots of break in really make big differences with these amps.
kenk168
175 posts
 
Hi Guidocorona, Jim and anyone interested,

Here's the review Ait did some time ago where he referenced the Nuforce Ref 9V2SE with others:

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ramps&1205629120

I believe this is an aberation, perhaps limited to his set up, and not a typical scenario for the Nuforce.

Regards,

Kenobi
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Thanks Kenobi, now I do remember the review. I can only guess that AIT may have been dealing with a NuForce right out of the factory or with very incomplete break in, or dead cold. Only on a dead cold and recently installed NuForce I have experienced noticeable artifacts at the top. These went away gradually with time. . . and completely.
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