2. amps-preamps
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Entry level tube amps?

I'm thinking about experimenting with tube amps. The goal is simple. I would like my system to sound more reed in the sax and resin in the bow of cello. For the time being I would like the cost to be under $2000, preferably under $1000. If I like what I hear I might go full out with tube amps. If I don't feel there is enough improvement then I'll just stay with solid state design. So this is an important moment for me.
jylee
bflowers
80 posts
 
Surprised no one has mentioned the BAT VK 55. A great tube amp, with a fabulous midrange. Used would be in your price range. I had a full BAT tube set up with Wilson Maxx's, and it took more money than I would like to admit to outperform them.
joelv's avatar
joelv
103 posts
 
I think any great tube amp will give you more life and texture in the midrange, that's what tubes are known for!

The best tube amps I've ever heard were from BAT and Music Reference. While you're looking to "get into" tubes, for your budget you might be able to buy a used one that will satisfy you for a good while. You might buy your first and last tube amp at once.
br3098
1,000 posts
 
What is the rest of your system consist of? What are you currently using as a pre? If you are all SS, you will get more tube bang for your buck adding a tube preamp first, and then going to a tub amp.
jylee OP
306 posts
 
I have CJ 16LS v2 for pre. I've always used SS power amps. I've used Theta, Proceed, Mark Levinson, and currently First Watt amp. All the gears in my system are listed in the link that says "System" next to my user id.

I like the sound of my system. The sound can be characterised as dynamic, clear, detailed, well extended to both freq extremes. The midrange is smooth, realistic, and life like. I really like the realistic harmonics of the piano, thanks to the amp from Nelson Pass.

The one thing I miss from the sound is the texture in the midrange. As I have expressed in the original post, I would like to hear more resin in the bow of cello, and reed of the sax. I'm not sure if that's all possible with the change in the power amp alone. That's why I am calling it as a trial.
br3098
1,000 posts
 
That's a pretty nice system you have there. I was going to suggest that you look at new speakers, but...

I am of the opinion that source components (and speakers) make the largest change in overall sound quality, and that the improvements diminish as you get to the middle (power amp). Have you tried other CD players or transposts/DACs? I have tried a couple of universal disc players (admittedly not the Linn) and have not been satisfied. Just my $.02 worth.
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