I have the PL 40w/channel integrated amp auto bias. One thing about them I like is the 80 watt limitation. I told the Marten Speaker rep that I don't need an 800 hp at the wheels car to drive 45mph to work. If you listen at normal levels I think that gets lower power amps in the sweet spot where the tubes actually work. I have not attempted to prove that though. Its driving Vandersteen speakers beautifully. Not sure how the PL would match up with your speakers.
Aric Audio? First Watt? PrimaLuna?
Looking to purchase a new amp. Currently I have an Odyssey Khartoga SE. Speakers: B&W 705s2, 88db. DAC: Metrum Onyx using Coax from a Singxer SU-1 w/upgrades. Using a Raspberry PI running MPD. I have a fairly large collection of digital files. Turntable is a EAT C-Major w/Lehman phono amp. Aric Audio Unlimited preamp.
I am looking at an Aric Audio Transcend Push Pull, a First Watt J2, F6 or SIT-3, or a PrimaLuna DIaglogue Premium. I have always wanted a tube amp and I definitely want to take my amp to the next level. I feel it is the weakest link I now have. I don't want a tube amp that I have to bias and I don't want to have to replace the power tubes every 2 years at $600 up.
Heat is a concern. My "listening room" is my garage, unheated and uncooled except what I can get thru the kitchen door when the temps get above 90 or below 45. Between those I tend to leave the garage door open as I love the sunshine. So my components sit in a cabinet to protect them. I can leave the door open and I have cooling fans in the cabinet.
The First Watt interests me and the sound, from what I have read, seems like what I want. But then so do the tube amps. So, I am looking for .....wisdom. Yours specifically. What are your thoughts?
Thanks!
I am looking at an Aric Audio Transcend Push Pull, a First Watt J2, F6 or SIT-3, or a PrimaLuna DIaglogue Premium. I have always wanted a tube amp and I definitely want to take my amp to the next level. I feel it is the weakest link I now have. I don't want a tube amp that I have to bias and I don't want to have to replace the power tubes every 2 years at $600 up.
Heat is a concern. My "listening room" is my garage, unheated and uncooled except what I can get thru the kitchen door when the temps get above 90 or below 45. Between those I tend to leave the garage door open as I love the sunshine. So my components sit in a cabinet to protect them. I can leave the door open and I have cooling fans in the cabinet.
The First Watt interests me and the sound, from what I have read, seems like what I want. But then so do the tube amps. So, I am looking for .....wisdom. Yours specifically. What are your thoughts?
Thanks!