2. amps-preamps
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ss replacement for my SET tubes and Egglestons?

I love the sound of my current amps (Audio Mirror 45 Watt SET monoblocks) with my speakers (EgglestonWorks Fontaine) but would prefer I get the same/near same sound with an ss amp for $2500 (used/new). Any Eggleston (or similarly built) owners out there think this is possible? (Tube pre is Mapletree 2A SE; also have pair of ACI Titan powered subs.) Reason for considering is not audio quality based, but for a more convenient and worry free set up. I'd love to play my rig several hours per day without the maintenance and worry of power tubes.
rockadanny
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Aleph is capable of driving your speakers but your preamp might not be a good match to Aleph.
I would suggest taking a walk on McIntosh or Accuphase streets.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Rtn1,
I`m not knocking solid state and I know many audiophiles prefer them. IMO the DHT type tubes have a instrinsic sound and character that`s simply different(better is of course a matter of opinion). The closest match to DHT tube character is probably the First watt SIT amplifiers and they`re not 'identical' in sound.Certainly you can find a SS amp that pleases, it just won`t 'mimic' the DHT sound IMO.
facten
2,878 posts
 
why not call Jim Thompson at Eggleston and ask him
peterayer
1,382 posts
 
I had a pair of Eggleston Rosas. I first tried the Aleph 5 and then the Aleph 2 monos. The 2s were better but boy those Rosas needed power. I moved up to the Pass XA series and eventually switched speakers. I would try the Aleph 2, 100 watt/8 ohm. They may be enough power for you depending on the type of music, volume and room size. They can be found for about $3K used. I don't know about your preamp match though.
rtn1
535 posts
 
Hi Charles,

I agree that you would never swap-out a SET amp for a SS amp and think you were still listening to a SET amp.

But I am wondering whether a 'system' can have all the characteristics of a SET amp, while using a SS amp. Emphasis on the whole system.

Would you please elaborate on the DHT type sound and how in compares to solid state? How would you describe it and why could it not be reproduced? How would it differ from other tubed designs?
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