Amplifier for Tannoy Turnberry GR

Pani,
I'm generally partial to tubes in most cases. I however suspect that the transistor First Watt amps will outperform certain tube amps as you cited. Not every tube amplifier is a good one.

That video on the manufacturing of the MC275 kind of disappointed me. It seems like McIntosh is cutting some corners in making these tube amps. Definitely not the quality of the McIntosh I was familiar with. I now am thinking of going with the Wyetech Topaz. That build quality really is first rate - I just need to hear it before I make my final decision. Otherwise, I will likely just get a SS amp to tide me over for a bit until I find my dream amp.

I agree that, in the solid state camp, First Watt amps would be pretty good. They really do not sound like good tube amps (they still have a smidge of an artificial sounding initial attack to the note), but they are very dynamic and lively sounding at lower volume (where most solid state sounds lifeless), and do not sound harmonically thinned out like most solid state stuff. I am not a fan of Pass gear, but, the two First Watt amps I heard sounded quite good. I had a friend's amp in my system for two weeks and I liked it a lot. Unfortunately, they are not cheap enough to be considered for a temporary solid state fill in. Perhaps a Bel Canto class D amp would make a good temporary amp. I have heard their entry level amp on Harbeth and ProAc speakers and it sounds decent.

Larryi,
We seem to hear in a very similar manner. I always enjoy your well thought out insight and impressions in these forums.

Atmasphere:
Can you tell me where in Canada I can demo your amps? I live in BC but I also travel quite frequently to Calgary, AB. Well made amps.

The closest dealer is in Toronto- address on our website.