If the objective is to just get close enough to experiment, I'd guess ANY tube amp with a >50 wpc power handling should suffice. My very limited experience with the tube amplification (or preamplification) has shown me that its difficult to find a "common thread" across all tube equipment with the exception of power handling and some midrange bulge, both of which can vary with tube choices even within a given amplifier.
Tube amp for KEF Reference 3s
Hi Everyone,
Long time Audiogoner but this is my first post here. I am looking for some suggestions regarding amplification for my KEF Reference 3s. Currently I have a Modwright KWI 200 with built-in DAC which I like a lot, but wonder if the KEFs would benefit from a high-quality tube amp. I would like to go for a high-end amp like a VAC or Air Tight but would prefer "testing the waters" first by trying a tube amp in my system. I primarily listen to Tidal streamed through a Audalic Aries into the Modwright and analog through a VPI Traveler/Musical Surroundings Nova II. I have a small listing area (my office) which is approximately 12 x 16 and I have some GIK acoustic panels in the corners and along my back wall. If anyone has suggestions as to a "low-priced" tube amp that might give the KEFs a somewhat warmer sound I'd be willing to purchase used and then move up the chain to a higher-end amp if things work out. Thanks in advance for your advice.
Long time Audiogoner but this is my first post here. I am looking for some suggestions regarding amplification for my KEF Reference 3s. Currently I have a Modwright KWI 200 with built-in DAC which I like a lot, but wonder if the KEFs would benefit from a high-quality tube amp. I would like to go for a high-end amp like a VAC or Air Tight but would prefer "testing the waters" first by trying a tube amp in my system. I primarily listen to Tidal streamed through a Audalic Aries into the Modwright and analog through a VPI Traveler/Musical Surroundings Nova II. I have a small listing area (my office) which is approximately 12 x 16 and I have some GIK acoustic panels in the corners and along my back wall. If anyone has suggestions as to a "low-priced" tube amp that might give the KEFs a somewhat warmer sound I'd be willing to purchase used and then move up the chain to a higher-end amp if things work out. Thanks in advance for your advice.