Tube Amp Recommendation for a solid state guy


After years of using solid state amps I'm thinking of purchasing a tube amp. My current amp is a Bryston 4B ST, it's a great neutral amp w/ loads of power but I always feel like I want more warmth and mid bass bloom.

I've been researching various tube amps from new "Chinese" imports to older / vintage units and I'm unsure which is the right amp for me. I mostly listen to modern blues, rock and Jazz so I want an amp with guts and power. My biggest concern with tubes is there apparent lack of "kick" so I'm hoping to find the best of both worlds.

My budget is $750 - $1,500 and I'm not afraid of buying second hand. Can anyone make a recommendation?

Thanks!

B
bluepearl

Showing 1 response by saki70

I have said it before but here goes.

If you want to see what tubes do , then do tubes !
By that I mean go all of the way and see what is there . If you go part way you will only see part of what tubes do .

Who knows you may find what you are looking for . If not you can always sell the tubed equipment , if bought properly , and then go the part way route .

I would look for an integrated tube amp that has the versatility of using many different types of tubes . You can experiment around and hear the different sounds that different types of tubes make , both input and output . Different amounts of tube effects or warmness can be achieved this way .

I like the Primaluna Prologue 2 . With stock tubes you will get a slightly warmed up SS sound with good top end extension and a slightly rolled off base . By changing the input tubes , you can warm up the mids and base , extend the base and not loose the very nice highs . If that is not enough , you can start experimenting with the output tubes for more or less of the tube warmth thing . There are at least 4 different types , and sounds , of output tubes that this amp can use . Varying combinations will give you varying amounts of the tube sound that you are looking for . Quite a versatile piece and fairly well built .

There are three used ones for sale here within your budget .

If you go this route you will not need to disturb your present setup . This integrated should work with either of your speakers , although the 92db. ones may be better . Oh and it is self/auto biasing making it quite easy to use and tube roll . The only real downside is no remote .

Just my 2 cents worth .

Good luck .