2. amps-preamps
  3. 177314-157966

Are Tube Buffers for real or even worth it ?

Currently on one of my set ups I’m running a Carver TFM-35X amp through a Parasound ZPre3 Preamp to some Maggi .7’s.  Being I really prefer a tube sound I was wondering if I picked up a Tube Buffer for a few bucks and ran it from the output of the Parasound preamp to the input of the Carver TFF-35x amp would it tame the carver’s output to more of a warmer tube type sound out of the Maggi’s? Has anyone tried anything like this and been happy with the results? 

The Amp is a beast but just a tad Solid State sounding for my taste but kicks butt none the less. 

Any thoughts? 

128x128flasd
stray_cat
69 posts
 

I' purchased a new itube2 late March 2018 and it and system has been running 24/7 (fingers crossed) Many pieces (streamers, amps, couple of dacs, wiring, power supplies, TVs, speakers etc) many multiples of its cost have come and some gone but after I heard what it does I've not had a desire to run without it. Sources are Qobuz/Tidal/TV. Everything solid state except for the iTube2 in unity gain. I've enjoyed this amazing piece the last 4 years, hope I didn't just jinx the tube lol.

secretguy
1,570 posts
 

Why did tubebuffer get banned? His only crime was being hilarious.

ripleydog's avatar
ripleydog
19 posts
 

Tried one with my SS gear years ago (also to a TFM amp) and the overall effect was zilch, not to mention it had a horrific turn on transient. It didn't give me anything like the wonderful results I got when I bought a Jolida tube pre. I gave the buffer away. All tube now and glad of it.

pedroeb
493 posts
 

The iFi Micro iTube2 seems interesting, but they seem to be long gone. Any alternatives?

bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,564 posts
 

@pedroeb 

Wow, I had no idea that they discontinued the iTube2. What a shame, but it sure seems to be the case searching around. Incredible little piece of equipment. If you can snag one used, I would still recommend that.

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