2. amps-preamps
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sweet, euphonic, reasonably powerful tube amp?

I'm thinking about moving away from my ARC VT100 mkiii to something more euphonic, forgiving, and sweet-sounding...tubey, really. (The VT100 goes somewhat in that direction when using the 4-ohm tap, but it's still somewhat "dry". On the 8-ohm tap, it's way too bright for me.) I have a VTL ST150 that's sort of in that direction when in triode mode, but it's just a bit bright for my tastes, as well. I want soft, easy highs. I'm using Harbeth speakers--I have both the Compact 7's and the M30's. They are somewhat inefficient, and require some power, probably no less than 70 watts or thereabouts, give or take. I listen mostly to classical music, in a relatively small room (14x19), and usually at low volume, but sometimes I like to step it up and play some rock or push the volume with some orchestral stuff. Other requirements: vanishingly low distortion, reliability, and ease of repair.

(Basically what's happening is that I've done the hyper-revealing, detail thing, and now I want to get down to just listening to the music, so that it's less about slam, holographic imaging, and cymbals in the room with me, and more about just listening to the music--not that I don't like a certain amount of those things!)

My budget, on the used market, could be anywhere between $3000 - 5000. On the pre-amp side, I have a GNSC-modified ARC SP8, a BAT VK31 w/ bugle boys, and I just bought a second hand Mac 2200, which I'm trying out because I want--Yes, believe it or not--a tone control!

(I really am whimping out, I guess!)

Thanks.
eweedhome
eweedhome OP
227 posts
 
Rodman - My VT100 is a mkiii, so I'm stuck with the 6H30. I'm reluctant to roll NOS tubes in an amp. Tube problems with an amp can be a bit more dramatic than with a pre-amp.

Pubul57 - Thanks for the thought about the CJ's. I had an MV75a 25 years ago, then tried a Premier 4 and thought it was too bright. Haven't tried anything since. I gather that EL34 tubes can generally be softer and more laid back? What CJ's do you recommend?

Thanks
rodman99999
3,557 posts
 
Funny- I've been rolling NOS tubes in my amps for decades without one issue. Happy searching!
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Hi Eweedhome. I am no expert on CJ. I based my comment on listening to the MV55 and MV60s both of which use EL34s. They were warm and sweet to my ears, and I imagine an MV100 would be similar with more power. I don't necessarily think EL34s are always sweet and euphonic, it depends on the circuit design too, but for the most part I think amps using them tend to be on the warmer side of neutral. The QSV4 use KT88s and I think are also on the warm side of neutral with significant power and bass energy.
lissnr
351 posts
 
Circuit design is an obvious variant but apples to apples I have found that the EL-34's have a seemingly more inherent midrange richness than the 6550's or even KT-88's My experience is based on my last tubed monos, the VTL MB-125's which are 4 x EL-34's per channel and can do tetrode or [1/2 power] triode. They provide much of what you're seeking in tetrode but almost all you're looking for in triode. I can also second the recommendation for the older MV series CJ's, perhaps an MV-125 IF you can find one (I've had my eye out for one for awhile) or an MV-100. I went to CJ from the VTL's with Premier 12's right now which are using 6550's. Sound went from velvet to silk in the midrange (rich and creamy to less fat but more "zest"), bottom went from ballsy, fast and strong to even faster, a bit leaner, somewhat more defined, and the top end went from ever so slightly rolled off (but didn't miss it), relaxed and natural to considerably faster, more detailed and extended but with no hints of harshness or bite. Each sound is a new acquired preference but it sounds like the EL-34's meet your description better. VTL also makes an EL-34 based bigger pair of monos.. I think they're MB-250's or so ?? Correct me if I'm wrong. I know they made MB-225's that were strictly triode and used 6550's but they also had a tetrode/triode switchable one with the EL-34's too I think. Might be worth a listen.I've also heard great things about the Dodd 120 monos (again, EL-34 based). Good luck.
drastic's avatar
drastic
14 posts
 
The gentleman who inquired about your room is, I think, on to something. You appear to be trying to use your amplifier as a tone control, and I submit that is the wrong approach. Instead, identify what it is in your system that makes the sound harsh and address that issue.

The room is the most important component. You may well be hearing the harshness of room effects, and I would strongly suggest room treatments. They don't have to look very intrusive. I had an acoustical consultant listen to and look at my room, and he recommended placing "BAD panels" (basic acoustic diffusor, I think it stands for) manufactured by RPG. They are not sound-deadening absorbers, rather they diffuse the sound and disrupt standing waves. They are flat, hang from the wall like a painting, and can be covered in fabric available in many colors. You don't have to hire the acoustician to do this yourself, and it's less expensive treating your room than it would be to replace the amp. Please do that first, then decide if you need a new amp.
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