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Questions on switching to tube amplification

I posted a similar message on The Asylum. My system currently has a Modulus 3a tube preamp, a Raysonic cd 168 tube cd player, Classe 15 solid state amp, Vandersteen 2ce speakers, speaker cables and interconnects are all MIT Terminator 2. I long for that lush tube sound with non fatigueing highs. I listen to about 60% Rock, 25% Jazz and 10% classical. I have an extensive music collection of cd, vinyl, and lossless digital via my laptop.

I am looking to buy something used between 1,500 and 2,000.00 max. I am not interested in modified amps other than different brand of tubes. I am looking for recommendations and why. I look forward to your help.

stereo5
128x128stereo5
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Cayin or VAS is the way to go.
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

I would find out what dealers have tube amps available new in your area and audition them. See what brands you like the sound of. Most offerings from a company have a similar type of "house" sound. I would look at maybe Cary, VTL, Manly, Rouge, CJ and see what you like the sound of. You might have a listen to an Audio Research amp also though I don't know that I would call their amps lush. Then look for used amps from the manufacturers you like the sound from.

I will tell you that both Cary and Audio Research have excellent customer service if you need parts or repair. I am sure there are others but these are the ones I have dealt with.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,784 posts
 
The 2Ce's are very tube-friendly!! You won't have any troubles finding something to work with them.
r_f_sayles's avatar
r_f_sayles
872 posts
 
Nothing would be better than to borrow a few tube amps in your price range, take them home and see what happens. Your ears will never stop rewarding you for the move.

Stereo5 what general area of the planet are you in?

Happy (valve amp) Listening!
trebejo
102 posts
 
Stereo5, you have tubes in practically all your stuff except the speakers. :)

You might want to take a listen to a hybrid amp (tube input stage, SS output stage), since you have tubes at every other stage already. At least that'll make it easier to get something in the neighborhood of the 175 watts that you've been getting from your venerable Classe.

Brands? van Alstine, Vincent, Counterpoint (used only, but you can get upgrades at altavistaaudio.com), Jolida come to mind. I'm using van Alstine's Ultra 550 and I can definitely hear the influence of those little glowers.
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