Drjjpdc, I like Jena would recomend the Music Reference RM9 as a very user friendly, musical, and indestructible power amp. This amp can use (8) EL34's (very inexpensive) which are very musical, or 6550c's (a little more expensive not necassarily better) with a little more authority or KT88's (much more expensive than the EL34's) that some people love. It is rated at 100 watts per channel with the EL34's and probably more with either the 6550 or KT88 tubes. Is very easy on tubes, probably well over the 2000 hours that seems to be the norm. Very easy to bias (won't need any meters, uses LED's), right from the top of the amp, and is a very pretty amp INHO. Usually you can find these amps for around $1200.00, they came in two versions RM9 and RM9 MKII. I personally favored the origianal. I have owned 2 and will surly own one again. Good luck with you search.....Bob
Tube reliability in amps
I am contemplating the purchase of a tube power amp. I already have an Audible Illusions pre-amp, which has given me virtually no problems tube wise. I would like to hear from a bunch of Audiogoners on how long power amp tubes last in the real world, do I have to keep matched pairs or sets around or can I just replace one? Also I have B&W matrix 804's and I have been told tube amps are not a match for them or that I need a lot of power (read expensive tube amp). Wavering between tube and SS, HELP.
PS. I listen to orchestral music and piano. Sometimes loud like about 90 db.
Thanks
PS. I listen to orchestral music and piano. Sometimes loud like about 90 db.
Thanks