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Reccomend an integrated tube Amp-under 2k

I've got some good advice from this forum, so in that spirit I would like some ideas about getting a new integrated amp for my speakers.

The speakers I have are VMPS QSO 626R:
Mid: - 280 Hz - 6.9 kHz
Treble: - FST, 6.9 kHz - 30 kHz
Impedance & Sensitivity:- 8 Ohm (5.6 min.) 90 dB/1W/1m
Power handling: - 150 W rms /4 Ohms, 20 W min.
Frequency response:- 42 Hz-25 kHz +0/-3 dB

I have already an integrated tube amplifier: Melody SP3, modified with Mullard and TungSol tubes.
My source is 90% digital music( CDs and computer, via a CI Audio DAC).
I feel that I don't get the full potential of those speakers with this amp, so I would like to "upgrade":)

My budget is something under $2000.
vdg
musicslug
430 posts
 
rogue cronus
vdg OP
11 posts
 
re: Darkmoebius
My current amps does not have enough power and the clarity is somehow not "clear" :)
It seems as well the sound stage is a bit on the small scale...
mimberman
299 posts
 
I think, given your speakers' specs and your desire for more dynamic power and greater clarity, that a Pathos Classic One Mk III would be something to explore. You'd get about double the Melody's output at 8 and 4 ohms (130 at 4, within your peak range for the speakers). The pre stage is Class A and true balanced, and has a pair of XLR inputs, which makes it more versatile than the Melody. It also has a remote, something the melody lacks. I think the Solid State amp stage might also give you the dynamic authority and strength in sound staging you cite as a problem with the Melody. I heard the melody in a casual listening sessions and thought it pretty nice, but that it would be bested by most others mentioned here (VTL and Rogue especially). I think that Pathos keeps its resale well, as it's got good reviews, looks great, and most importantly sounds great.
vdg OP
11 posts
 
The Pathos one seems VERY nice, but there is noone in US that sells for under 2k:(
darkmoebius
900 posts
 
The Melody SP3 is rated ~38wpc, but not all watts are the same in tube-vill. Melody isn't a company particularly known for producing muscular amps, so their emphasis might be elsewhere.

Manley Labs, on the other hand, is famous for their powerful tube amps, even their lower rated offerings. Their similarly rated (in Ultralinear mode) Manley Stingray will probably provide much greater authority and drive than the Melody. There is one listed here for under $1,500.

The thing that you have working in your favor is that the QSO 626R are -3dB @42Hz which will save any tube amp from having to reach too deep.

A Cary SLi-80 might also do the trick at 40wpc Triode and 80wpc Ultralinear. Cary does midrange richness and tonally density like nobody's business. There are two here for $2.1k OBO - one with the F1 upgrade, the other the Signature Series w/ Jensen Cap upgrade

Almarro A50125A(125wpc) tube integrated - a little out of your price range($2.2k, new w/ warranty), but I owned one of their other integrateds and it was superb for the money. Here is a 6Moons review where the A50125A and the Manley Stingray are directly compared.
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