Looking for great tube integrated for Martin Logan Summit X speakers


I've had upgrade fever every since I added bass traps and acoustic panels to my listening room and wondered why I didn't do that years ago.  So I've decided to change my Plinius Hautonga integrated and make the plunge to tubes. I want that sound, and the thought of tube rolling appeals to me.  I was leaning toward the Primaluna Dialogue HP integrated, but after doing more reading, I'm concerned that it won't have adequate power due to the Summit's impedance needs.  I'm admittedly a novice with tubes, so seeking help from the forum.   My room is about 12x15, with the area behind my listening position open for an additional eight feet.  I don't listen at high volumes at all, and my favorite music is female jazz, smooth jazz, Nora Jones type vocals.  Music comes from SACDs and Tidal exclusively - I have no analogue gear.

The rest of my gear:
  • Gustard x20u DAC modified by Rick Schultz
  • Oppo 103D for SACDs modified by Rick Schultz
  • Bryston BDP-1 music streamer
Will I be happy with the Primaluna, or do you have other suggestions in the $5,000 range?  Or should I stay away from tubes for these speakers?

Appreciate your opinions!

Steve
smills59

Showing 1 response by captaindidactic

My advice is that you have to audition them in your own home. I did that just last night. I had my checkbook out prior to the test, fully convinced that I was going to be the proud owner of a PrimaLuna HP integrated amp. Also in the mix was a 400 watt Anthem STR integrated amp. 

Although I loved the stage presence of the PrimaLuna, unbelievably, it didn't have the power to run my hungry AR 910 TSW's. The sound could be phenomenal if I ran mono blocks, but I wasn't ready to shell out that kind of money. 

Next up was the Anthem. It had power in spades, but lacked the depth and warmth. 

I then re-auditioned my 1980's NAD 2600's and to my great surprise that system had the best over all sound. Richer, full and more stage presence than the Anthem, and better bass control than the PrimaLuna. 

The reason for the want to upgrade is that I have a intermittent static somewhere in the system. It has been to the repair place twice and no help. Suggestions???