Valve amplifiers


I love class A sound and have recently been listening to Mastersound Compact 845. Sounds very good. Has anyone any experience of this amp in particular or any similar component?

I use Sugden at the moment and prefer the warmth of sound that it provides.

Am I buying in to trouble by going down the valve line?
superted

Showing 5 responses by charles1dad

Superted,
I haven't heard the Mastersound 845 amplifier but it's has a good word of mouth reputation. There are numerous highly regarded 845 SET amplifiers available. They cover a fairly broad price range. Try to make an effort to hear others and get familiar with their varying sound characteristics. Key question is what speaker would you mate to them? This is a fundamental point with SET amplifiers. Take some time to read and learn more about these types of special amplifiers. You obviously have good ears.
Charles,
Superted,
You have to trust what you hear and your spontaneous reactions. No surprise that you'd be very much attracted to a good SET amplifier. They make beautiful and natural sounding music (isn't that what you want?). My SET is ultra simple to maintain and utterly reliable. With appropriate speakers all music genres can be enjoyed.
Best of Luck,
Charles,
The world of tube amplifiers is vast, no argument on that point. Superted was captivated by the sound of the 845 SET amp he heard and I understand this and thus stayed on subject. I'd encourage people to listen to all types of amplifiers and expand their knowledge and experience base. When all is said and done Superted may still gravitate towards the SET beauty he recently heard.
Charles,
In terms of information, search the audiogon archives. Gon member 213cobra has posted some very interesting threads on 845 SET amplifiers on this site. Also do a google search for reviews and discussion about these amplifiers. There's a lot of good information available to read. For your speakers and stated listening level and preferences I think you're moving in a good direction.
Charles,
Superted,
Do you have an update in regards to your pursuit and interest in 845 SET amplifiers, what did you end up doing?
I hope all is well with you.