2. amps-preamps
  3. 1264575099

tube amp for ProAc Response.. need suggestions

hi guys, i will try to keep it short & simple

my setup consists of a peachtree decco dac/pre and a mcintosh mc7100 amp in a ~11x15 room.. and just picked up a set of proac response 1.5

i used to have b&w 805's which is why i bought mcintosh, but i've read tubes work better with proac and i want to give it a shot

i do not want an integrated because my peachtree is staying as the dac/pre... i've read conrad johnson and audio research work very well with proacs

unfortunately my budget is capped around $1000, but i'm happy to buy used off the audiogon market

any suggestions/advice would be appreciated, thanks!
koven
rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
I will recommend the VTL ST85, plenty of EL34 pentode power for some snap and drive on the Proacs. They are priced used exactly in your budget.
steveaustin
57 posts
 
I'm using a Cary SLA-70 (35w/ch) with ProAc 2S's. Sounds bea-U-tee-full! Very tuneful and 'punchy' sounding. These speakers are very kind to tube amps, and visa-versa.

I heard both ProAc 1SC's and 2S's with an Audio Research VT60 (50w/ch) amp years ago at the local dealer, and in many ways it was the best combination I had heard in that store over the years.

You see both of these amps pop up on Audiogon in your price range. Good luck, and let us know what you decide on and how it works out!
xiekitchen
821 posts
 
Second the proac with Cary, I heard a set up with 1sc's and it was very good.. also heard Proac 2's with a Jadis which was VERY nice... about 13 yrs ago...
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Audio Research and ProAc is a match made in heaven. There is currently on Audiogon a Classic 60 for $1250, a D-125 for $1200, and a VT60 for 1050. The Classic 60 is your best choice here. I would not recommend the CJ.
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
Second the PrimaLuna suggestion, I have heard this combination more than once, and it works very nicely. You could probably find a used one within your budget.
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