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SS integrated amp that has tube like qualities

I'm looking for someone who has real experience with several solid state integrated amplifiers that could provide me with a recommendation.

I'm looking for a solid state integrated, if one exists, with a tube like presentation. I mostly listen to male and female vocalists and are looking for an integrated that excells in midrange warmth/bloom, and richness/sweetness, while maintaining sonic clarity.

I believe that the Ayre may meet my expectations, but is a bit expensive even in the used market.

Are there any other less expensive choices? Thanks in advance...

Please do not recommend any class D amplification. I have had several, including the new Wyred and they are not my cup of tea.
sfrounds
jamo1
16 posts
 
not sure if you are looking for new stuff or used but I owned a Classe CAP150 that seemed like what you are describing, on the warm side but still detailed. I kind of regret selling it. There are a few iterations of it, CAP100, CAP151 etc. I have no experience with the newer stuff from Classe.
mkash3
57 posts
 
Look for the Denon PMA-2000.
phaelon
1,053 posts
 
First post:
" provide me with a recommendation."
"I'm looking for a solid state integrated"

Later post:
"I was only asking a generic question whether anyone had first hand experienced a SS integrated that had tube like characteristics, and that was pretty much it. end of story."

I'm sorry I intruded
glenfihi
525 posts
 
My two cents would be the McIntosh MA 6600. Integrated amp used before and loving every minute with it was the Quest for Sound SQ-88 a 55 watt tube unit, The MA 6600 gives me all of the best of the tube amp and more. It gives me the magic of tubes with the solidity and ease of SS. A host of user features makes it even more livable and lovable. Good hunting.
pmburnett
58 posts
 
I would look into the Rega Elicit. I wouldn't say that it is "tube=like" but I would say that it has good PRAT characteristics with a touch of warmth and no exaggerated brightness. Overall, it's extremely musical and natural. That's not to say it's going to be a great match for everyone. If your speakers are bright, it will seem bright. If your speakers are warm or neutral, it will likely be a good fit. If your speakers are dark, it seem dark. Also, the Elicit has a sufficient 82wpc, but it won't drive current-hungry 4ohm loads very well.

I've used this amp on WLM La Scala monitors and it sounded great. It also is a good partner with my Zu Essence (it doesn't make them over-bright) like some other solid state gear. I also hooked up my Cambridge Siroccos S30's from my office system and it made them sound great as well.

Not saying this should be your destination, but I might try to start listening with the Rega, listen to some LFD gear or Luxman gear, and listen to Ayre gear, and listen to some Naim gear to get a good flavor of what's available in this area.

I second some of the other suggestions to go with a hybrid. While I haven't auditioned any of the hybrid gear, the Jolida gear is relatively inexpensive and upgradeable.

Also, if you are interested in tubes, look at Van Alstine's new Ultravalve amp. Relatively inexpensive, highly recommended, and comes with a 30-day in-home audition. Also, I think it's discounted 15% in December. The only issue there is you will still need a pre-amp.

PMB
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