2. amps-preamps
  3. 1027038014

Is a tube amp for me?

I've been an 'audiophile' for over 20 years. I've experimented with tubed preamps unsucessfully (I should add that later I found out the problem was a ground loop hum with my cable company, which didn't affect solid state preamps). I've been a SS guy for the rest of my audio life. Reliability is of utmost importance to me, and tube horror stories have scared me off. Sound quality is also very important, but not at the cost of chronic repairs. I currently am driving a pair of Vienna Acoustic Beethovens (4 ohms, 91 db sens) with a Threshold T400 amp (300 wpc into 4 ohms). I also have a Classe CP-60 and CDP-1.
I've listened to a BAT VK-60 and a Cary V-12 at a local dealer. The dealer would not let me bring the amps home, they sounded very good in his showroom. My question to you, my A-gon friends, is, is it worth the risk to try a tube amp? Or is it all hype? Should I just stick with my old, reliable Class A SS? What do ya say? Thanks for any input.
I should add that I couldn't afford to 'try' a tube amp without selling/trading my current amp (Threshold T-400). So it's not just a matter of trying a tube amp and keeping my SS amp in case things don't work out.

Regards,
John
128x128jmcgrogan2

Showing 2 responses by marakanetz

marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
good one kevz,
i should also admit that built quality is on the threshold side rather than on two amps you've just auditioned, but for the sake of a sound it's worth to sacrifice.
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
it's sort-of different levels are to be compared bat and rogue isn't it, ultrakaz?

but somwhere you're probably right since built quality of bat or even cary isn't one of the best even if compared to rogue.

that's why i would recommend to buy(or audition first) vtl MB225 which gives you a high class, ss bass and undisputable built quality.
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