I would try some different 6sn7 tubes in your preamp first. I have found a great variation in sound in those tubes. My Rogue Metis pre uses those tubes and I have tried around 20 different pairs before I found a pair I really love. You could start with some NOS GE 6sn7 GTA's. Pretty cheap with a nice full sound. NOS RCA tubes have an even warmer sound. Plenty of not very pricey NOS tubes you could try to find a sound you like.
Considering the Parasound A23+ amplifier
As the title suggests I am thinking about the purchase of the Parasound A23+ amplifier. Just looking for thoughts from those familiar with this amplifier regarding tonal balance, soundstaging, reliability, and serviceability. I am using a Aric Audio Special 6SN7 based tube preamplifier with Tannoy Sterling speakers (91dB, 8ohm) and also have a pair of Esoteric MG10s stand mounts (87dB, 6ohms). Room volume is ~1500sq. ft. Not concerned about the power of this amplifier as I believe it would serve either speaker power wise.
As some of you might know I have recently purchased a used Pass XA25 which for my tastes I have found to be generally too lean, with excessive brightness in some passages. As I also wish to purchase a tube amplifier I am hoping the A23+ might serve my SS needs while also my budget.
Alternative recommendations accepted.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
As some of you might know I have recently purchased a used Pass XA25 which for my tastes I have found to be generally too lean, with excessive brightness in some passages. As I also wish to purchase a tube amplifier I am hoping the A23+ might serve my SS needs while also my budget.
Alternative recommendations accepted.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.