I can recommend LTA and Coda, I have a MicroZOTL Level 3 preamp with Ray Reserve 6SN7 and 12AT7 and a Coda No.8 V1 power amp. They are very nice together, as others have said, the LTA is not a classic tube sound but a nice balance in between, open, dynamic, detailed, and very quiet.
The LTA has low output impedance but single-ended only and the Coda has high input impedance on its single-ended inputs so they match well electrically.
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
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- 125 posts total
I have to agree with @ghdprentice regarding the ARC/Pass Labs combo, probably because that is what I am most familiar with. I have Wilson Sabrina X's, with a Pass Labs 250.8 and an ARC REF 6 pre. Although I have not heard a lot of the equipment discussed, I find that my combo is great. The tube pre and the solid state amp give me the best of both worlds. But one thing I can definitely say: reach for the REF 6 if you go ARC. I listened to the LS28SE, the Ref 5 and the REF 6 and the REF 6 was significantly better to my ears. The lower ARC models just didn't improve the sound over the MSB DAC to Amp setup, but the REF 6 was a definite improvement. Several people have mentioned Allnic pre's. I have heard stories from owners singing their praise, but haven't heard one. When I was looked at preamps, my recollection is that the Allnics don't have a remote control, which I definitely wanted, so . . . |
@dseltz Thank you for the details about tube rolling and sharing your experience with Atmasphere Class D amps. I will keep an eye on 6SN7 Ken Rad charcoal tubes. I have heard AGD mono amps before and I didnt find major difference between Luxman 590 Mk2 and AGD at that time, I assume AGD uses similar technology. I have heard praises about Atmasphere Class D amps. |
@jackd Thanks for the details, I will look in to those for sure. I have read that 6SN7 tubes are one of the best sounding tubes for preamps. |
@swaudiofan Thank you. Looks like lot of tube amplifier manufacturers are switching to Class D.Does these Class D amps provide similar or better performance than tube amps? Really wondering what could be the reason, is it due to efficiency or maintenance effort. |
- 125 posts total