Tube integrated amps


HI,

Don't know anything about tube integrated amps but want to learn.

Where are some good resources?

Want to give one a try in a second system that has Dynaudio 1.3SE speakers. Don't want to spend more than 2300 used or 4K new.
nycjdc

Showing 3 responses by nycjdc

Thanks everyone. I say I want an integrated amp because I don't want another component in the system. I don't really care how many inputs the amp has; I only need one for my DAC.

The Dynaudio details are as follows. Does this mean tube amp wouldn't be such a good idea?

Sensitivity (2.83 V/1 m): 86 dB
Recommended Amp. Power: Small size rooms: > 30 Watts Medium size rooms: > 80 Watts
IEC Long Term Power Handling: > 170 Watts
Impedance, Nominal: 6 ohms
Impedance, (20-200 Hz): 3.6 - 23.9 ohms
Impedance, (200-20 kHz): 3.7 - 6.1 ohms
Impedance, Phase Shift (20-200 Hz): -53.2º - +28.5º
Impedance, Phase Shift (200-20 kHz): -5.0º - +12.0º
Impedance, HF (200 kHz): 6.9 ohms
Frequency Response (+/- 3 dB): 37 Hz - 27 kHz
Resonance Frequency: 40 Hz
Internal Cabinet Volume: 11.8 liters
Bass Principle: Bass Reflex
Weight: 10.1 kg. each
Dimensions (W x H x L): 8" x 15" x 11.5"
Crossover: The crossover is phase-aligned.
High quality crossover components only. Crossover Frequencies: 2600Hz
Crossover Slope: 6dB/oct
Thanks again for everyone's input. Heard back from Dynaudio. He suggested Ayre AX7e, Naim NAIT 5i, Simaudio i5.3 (which is what they use in their office).

As for tubes, he says, "As far as tube (or hybrid) integrateds go, I could recommend looking at the VTL I-85, the PrimaLuna, BAT, Conrad-Johnson, Cary and McIntosh integrateds as a start since I have had excellent listening experiences with all of the above (though I forget some of the model names) in various systems with Dynaudio models. As far as power ratings are concerned, don’t be too worried about that. Dynaudio designs are very linear in impedance (meaning they are easy loads for any amplifier) and they have a steep efficiency curve. They really do not need high power, just their high peak input power handling capacity enables them to convert power into sound pressure without distortion, making them excellent mates to such amplifier designs. But they also will mate to more conservatively rated electronics, as current delivery and overall sound quality are the most important factors to be concerned with. I hope this makes sense."

So given what many have said here and the guy at Dynaudio, sounds like solid state is my best route.

Now if anyone has any experience w/ Ayre AX7e, Naim NAIT 5i, Simaudio i5.3, I'm listening.

Many thanks again.
I will do so Pubul7. You & the others have been a great help. Thank you. leaning towards SS solution. Happy Holidays.