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What tube amp for Harbeth 40.1

I am looking for a tube amp for Harbeth 40.1.  I know many suggest SS amp such as Accuphase, Luxman, Hegel, McIntosh ... etc for Harbeth, but I decided to keep it with tube.  I also don’t think I need a lot of power.  I currently have a 8W custom built 300B and had a 18W Almarro 318B, and to me, they sound fine.  However, I think more power will help, and I never know what I missed until I try it out.  Having said that, I don’t think I need crazy power.  Anything 30-80W is good enough for me.  I am 3m away from the speakers, listen to Jazz at avg 83dB.

i have the following short list:
1) PrimaLuna Evo 400 integrated
2) Leben CS600X 
3) Linear Tube Audio Z40

Which one do people like with Harbeth?  Any other suggestion?

Among all qualities, I value holographic presentation the most.  I really like the feeling as if the singer is floating in front of me, if you know what I mean.  And my current 300B do pretty well in this regards, and I read this is what SET amps are good at.  Will I be disappointed with the above?
Thanks.
gte357s

Showing 1 response by jtcf

jtcf's avatar
jtcf
1,589 posts
 
I'm running my Harbeth C7ES with an Aric Audio Transcend Push Pull amp with either KT88 or KT150 tubes(45 and 65watts).I also tried them with a pair of QuickSilver mid monos w/EL34,KT88,and KT150.The KT150s have the biggest liveliest sound,the 88s are good too.As expected,the EL34s run out of steam rather quickly.Personally,I prefer the tube amps over the 120 watt ss CJ amp I tried also.
IMHO the Harbeth 'house sound' puts you a few rows back as opposed to front row as far as dynamic swing and transients whether ss or tube.If I were in the market I would give one of the LTA amps a try.I have one of their preamps that I am extremely happy with.Just my two cents:-)
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