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Myth: low-power high-efficiency

The past 6 - 8 months I have been living with very efficient speakers (~ 109dB/m/w) driven by low-power SET amps. The amps use 300B output tubes for about 7 wpc. On paper, this should be a match made in heaven. In fact, the combination is capable of wonderful nuance, subtley, harmonic richness, and tonality. It is really pleasing, especially on chamber and jazz music. Except for one thing - dynamic energy. I am not referring to loudness. It can deliver more undistorted volume than I care to listen to. I'm referring to immediacy, presence, power, and punch - the life of the music. If you go to the symphony, or live blues, than you know what I am talking about. Next week I'm taking delivery of a 90wpc PP amp, to audition in place of the SET. I need an amp that can maintain the purity of tone and harmonic texture of the SET, while delivering more power, to grab hold and take control the 15" bass driver in my horns.

I searched the archives, but have not found a similar post. Are there any other high-efficiency low-power people who moved to a higher power amp? Are you satisfied now?

Scott
skushino

Showing 1 response by grannyring

grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,436 posts
 
Look at the Mcalister Audio 150PP amp. Look under my threads as I have a full review. I does exactly what you want and need without losing that SET intimacy. I have owned several SET amps and this 75 watt amp from Mcalister is wonderful. Big surprise is it's only $995 new.

Very few know about it. Seems few will take the risk of looking beyond the common names. Only talked with the builder once and I am in no way involved with this line in a business sense.

Just think it is a wonderful amp that others would really enjoy without spending thousands.

Bill
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