First foray into tube amps

@treepmeyer ….Volti Razz, a Klipsch Cornwall or a Pure Audio Project Duet.

The Pure Audio is a panel speaker which generates energy front and back, so requires careful placement. I suggest further research on box vs dipole speakers.

I wanted the most neutral efficient speaker so I can hear and learn differences in tube amplification. When I saw Volti offer a couple of Klipsch transducers(driver) upgrades here, I got the impression that Volti was sonically superior. I later found out that Volti Audio’s founder, Greg Roberts, intentionally designs his high-end horn speakers to offer a more refined, higher-quality alternative to traditional Klipsch Heritage models.

I heard the Volti Rival at several high-end audio shows like AXPONA. They sounded great, clear, dynamic, effortless. I own the Volti Rival. Research in tube sonic magic led to flea watt amps 300b, 2a3, 45,50 tubes. I wasn’t sure if the 100db Volti Rivals can handle the very low ~2watt amps, so I reached out to Greg who replied it’s okay to use.

In investigation various tube presentations, I trying to not overly spend $ on tubes and tube amps. 

I’m now targeting the TEKTRON TK TWO 2A3/50S-I which can run multiple tubes 2a3, 45, 50, 300b. The Response Audio Harmonia v4 45/2a3/300B is another option for less money. I’m also targeting the DECWARE Model SE84UFO25 which contains extra various tubes for a good variety of sonic presentations- saves money on buying tubes, bummer it’s wait list ~3 years.

Good luck with your search 

I have owned a bunch of Audio Research gear.  I started out with the LS -17SE preamp and the REF 75SE amp, both of which were great.  I still think that REF 75SE was one of the best bargains in audio.  I now have REF 10 preamp, REF 10 phono state and the REF 160S amp.  I love the audio research sound.  I'm definitely biased, and i can't tell you that I've compared it to a lot of other tube gear, so I don't know if its better than some of the other suggestions, but will tell you I love the Audio Research gear.  

Tube amps are not that consistent like the solid-state amps. Tubes got aged over time especially for those power tubes. Periodic maintenenance is needed to keep the amp in good condition. 

I understand that this is a bit discouraging but this is very true indeed.

Johnny

Look for a decent used Audio Research i/50. They appear frequently here and on eBay and AudioMart. It is a 50W push-pull design, 6550 tubes, useful interface and very good sound.