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Suggestions for a tube pre and power amp

Dear Audio Friends,

I am writing to seek your experienced suggestions regarding an upgrade to my current stereo setup. My current system consists of Revel F328Be speakers powered by a Luxman 590Mk2 Class A integrated amp. My frontend includes a Sonic Transporter (Roon core) powered by a Farad LPS, a Holo Red streamer, and a Holo May KTE DAC.

I am considering transitioning to a tube preamplifier and a solid-state power amplifier combination. While my speakers have a 91dB sensitivity, the impedance dips to 3 ohms between 100Hz and 200Hz.

My current shortlists are as follows:

- Power Amps: Coda S5.5 Class A or Coda No. 8 V1.

- Tube Preamps: Backert Labs Rhumba, Spatial Audio Raven, or Motherlode XL.

 

I am looking for a 3D holographic, warm sound with a high level of clarity and detail. While I am aware of the general rules regarding impedance matching, I would value your insights on how these specific components might pair together. I am also very open to any other combinations you might recommend.

 

Thank you for your help.

Rlal

lals
lals OP
55 posts
 

Thanks tcutter. I am really not sure to go with monos or not. Extra power cable and space, is it really worth the effort? I do agree it is only one life.

tcutter's avatar
tcutter
386 posts
 

@lals 

Mfr copy with some reviews. Pretty amazing for only $7900.  But you do need space. And a strong back or friend.

https://www.passlabs.com/products/xa60-8/

soix
11,230 posts
 

Here’s a Plinius SA103 ($4200 - $5k depending on which one you pick, and you only need one) that I’ll recommend because it’s Class A but also has a low bias switch for low heat/power consumption for less critical listening or if you want to leave the amp on.  Pairing this with the Raven or Aric would make for some sublime sound I’d think and be within your budget.  Just one idea FWIW, and best of luck. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650285723-plinius-sa-103-class-a-stereo-amplifiers-pair-silver-fully-restored-2023-pair-730-wpc-class-a/

Incidentally, Coda could be good but not pure Class A, and I’d be very concerned with the S5.5 with your speaker’s dip below 4 Ohms with difficult phase angles and would definitely side with the No. 8 if you go that route.  Again FWIW. 

bolong
962 posts
 

Grrek Audio Geek on the Aric 2A3

quincy
474 posts
 
  1. @lals   you have some very good recommendations to consider!  
  2. I recommend a Conrad Johnson Premier 17ls pre and a C-J LP66S amp.  Both are tube and work very well with low impedance high efficiency speakers.  Keep an eye open in this site for unit's on sale!
  3. I believe you would enjoy C- J equipment!
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