2. amps-preamps
  3. 1226898011

Which is the most tubelike solid state amp around

Being a tube person who is trying to put together an active loudspeaker setup , I have come across the problem of choosing the best driver for the midrange and upper bass i.e.80Hz to 2.5 KHz. I would like to try a panel such as a Magnapan but am told that they are rather power hungry. Therefore, I would be grateful if fellow Audiogoners could share your experience in relation to the best powerful SS amps that would not be out of place in a "tube-ophile's" system.
Thanks
ecka
mcgarick
277 posts
 
A tubes even order harmonics are pleasing to the ear.
phd
1,319 posts
 
I could easily recommend the Odyssey Stratos. Quoting one reviewer the Stratos has weighty bass but more importantly it has a smooth grain free treble and a distinct lack of the upper midrange glare often found in affordable solid state products.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
the idea that a solid state amp could sound "tube like" obscures the intrinsic sonic signature(s) of both tube and solid state amplifiers.

its like saying what apple is like an orange.

amplifiers can be recommended which are not offensive but regardless of the sound of an amplifier, it does not have the sonic signature of classic tube amplifiers.
Post removed 
phd
1,319 posts
 
Tvad, I agree, there is no such thing as a solid state amp that sounds like tubes but there are a handful of solid state amps that are less offensive. Can you tell me if you have come across an ss amp that sounds like a tube amp, if so I would love to hear about it.
More to discover