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Maybe Leaving SET for Solid State because I want bass

Looking for a recommendation of an amp to power a pair of 12 in 2 way bass reflex studio monitor with 96db sensitivity. My SET amp sounds lovely and pure but is bass shy. Looking for a sweet solid state amp with some slam. I've heard my setup with a pair of Herron Monos and a Pass Sit-3. Herron had the bass but was otherwise unsatisfying. Pass was a little lean. Budget is $3-5K on the used market. Even something on the lower cost end that would give me a taste of what I'm looking for as proof of concept would be great to start out with.

Thanks in advance!

dhcod
inna
8,240 posts
 

As Lamm's designer once said - I can get an incredible bass out of transistors but that's not how it sounds in reality.

If you like tube sound forget about ss,  just find a different tube amp, as Ralph and mulvelling suggested. Atma-Sphere and VAC would be a good idea to start with.

inna
8,240 posts
 

Subs are not a substitute for an appropriate amp for the main speakers. Do both of it if you are inclined to.

dekay's avatar
dekay
6,160 posts
 

Your speakers are rated 60Hz -15,000Hz and 60 watts maximum.

Using tone controls to extend the LF response may damage the woofers in the long run if they are original from the 60's.

As mentioned consider adding a sub or subs.

 

DeKay

 

decooney
2,564 posts
 

Your speakers are rated 60Hz -15,000Hz and 60 watts maximum.

Using tone controls to extend the LF response may damage the woofers in the long run if they are original from the 60’s.

As mentioned consider adding a sub or subs.

 

DeKay

 

Exactly, almost posted the same, at first thinking folks can hear and understand the difference in bass frequency gain with tone control is not the same as low frequency gain under 60hz with a quality subwoofer. Maybe not.     

 

nubiann
95 posts
 

Get a pair of REL T9/X Then keep the lovely qualities of your SET and get proper Bass properly integrated with you speakers. Well within your budget and huge bang for the buck

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