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Integrated amp with preamp tubes

Hi All,

I'm curious with perhaps downsizing my Bryston 3B3 & VTL 2.5(tube) with a good quality Integrated amp. 

Question: Are there integrated amps with a tube pre inside ? Would that be called a "Hybrid" integrated ?

I really like the tube/Solid state combo. I like a little warmth with my music. I'm just kicking tires at the moment. I know many will say that separates are the best way to go, but still curious to do some research on quality Integrated amps.Probably looking at $4000usd(used)

Love to hear some input, thanks in advance.

bunkertoy
raiderdave3275's avatar
raiderdave3275
21 posts
 

An Aesthetix Mimas should be on your short list. Though used, it’s still gonna be higher than the $4k. 

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,420 posts
 

I stayed away from tube amps for forty year... what a mistake it was for me. 

inna
8,240 posts
 

Tube preamp is of course very important, but if you want to fully experience tube sound you got to have tube power amp as well. I just stated the obvious, didn't I ?

 

bunkertoy's avatar
bunkertoy OP
70 posts
 

I do realize after asking the question, that maybe what I'm looking for is a tube integrated. The VTL it-85 looks interesting, but only if I can find a deal on it.

Seems a tube integrated is pretty pricey, compared to SS. Keep the recommendations for a tube integrated amp coming.

Cheers

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,420 posts
 

@inna 

You would think, but no.

 

There is enough talk about the occasional problem with tubes that make them sound incredibly unreliable. And not enough talk about the greater power per watt and overall sound quality that puts folks off. 

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