Tube Amplifier for Thiel


I recently pick up a pair of Thiel CS3.6. As like many reviews online said, they are awesome speakers. I am using Musical Fidelity A5 int amp (200wpc @4 Ohms, 400wpc @8 Ohms) to drive them. I can't say the A5 is not good, but I kind of feel it not quite musical, crispy, fast... These seem to be the strengths I found in most tube amplifiers I have auditioned before. I am thinking of replacing the A5 with a tube int amp; however, I worry that normal tube int amps are not "powerful" enough to drive the big Thiel (I am a bass lover).

I currently have Prima Luna Dialogue 2, Cayin A-100T/A-70T (and probably VTL IT-85) on my list. I would appreciate if some one could comment on these choices. I also welcome any other tube/SS int amp suggestions (even tube pre/SS power amp) in that price range.

Thank you!
unjc

Showing 1 response by rosami

I've owned various Thiel speakers for over 20 years. Currently I'm driving my 3.6s with a Naim 300 amp and this, along with a Naim preamp, really drives these speakers properly, with loads of control, dynamics and proper timing. But no -- they're not tubes -- and upper-level Naim gear is expensive.

Previously I drove the 3.6s with Bryston 7B STs; the Bryston amps drove the Thiels well, but the Naim really brought a new level of timing, detail and control. However, Naim electronics don't have the depth of some other stuff, so if you value depth over timing and pace, then Naim may not be the way to go for you.

Good luck.