2. amps-preamps
  3. 1283999099

Thought on OTL tube amps

Just curious....how do these sound/perform compared to tube amps with transformers? Why do you prefer one or the other? Any particular brands of OTL amps you would recommend listening to? You can see my system on my tag here...listen mostly to rock and roll with a smattering of jazz and a bit of classical once in a while. The next stop on my amplifier adventure is an OTL model, and I have no intention of trading it for either SET I currently have, as I'm very happy with both. One of the ways I enjoy experimenting with different "sound" is by switching up the amps. Just trying to solicit some opinions, of which I know there are many strong ones here at A-Gon. Thanks in advance!
afc
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,464 posts
 
I love the sound of the Atma-sphere MA1's on my Soundlabs, but I wish I had a bit more power.Up to 85 db or so they are so sweet and intimate. The bass has great foundation and weight.

My amps are still breaking in and I must remember that. They have the V-caps and I read they take time to break-in. They only have 30 hours or so thus far.

Funny thing is they seem to get more powerful with break-in. I know that seems nuts, but I swear it is happening.
They used to clip at sound levels they now play through? Strange, but true in my current experience.
Post removed 
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,464 posts
 
Ya, I wish I could afford the MA2's as the heat is no problem here in Minnesota. I welcome the heat most of the time.
glory's avatar
glory
1,614 posts
 
Granny,

What amp are you running now?
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,464 posts
 
I use a Sunfire Signature 600 x 2 amp that has been completely gone through with power supply caps replaced and some other work to get it up to and beyond spec.

I know many will quickly dismiss this amp based on the "Sunfire" brand. I have not heard a better amp on my Soundlab A1 speakers however. This amp is a great match to my SL speakers. I have listened to several top amps on my speakers and the Sunfire just sounds most right.

I have not tried the larger Atma amps such as the MA2 & 3 and may guess they would also be quite good :-) problem is the Sunfire cost me $1500.
More to discover