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Tube amp for KEF Reference 3s

Hi Everyone,

  Long time Audiogoner but this is my first post here.  I am looking for some suggestions regarding amplification for my KEF Reference 3s.  Currently I have a Modwright KWI 200 with built-in DAC which I like a lot, but wonder if the KEFs would benefit from a high-quality tube amp.  I would like to go for a high-end amp like a VAC or Air Tight but would prefer "testing the waters" first by trying a tube amp in my system.  I primarily listen to Tidal streamed through a Audalic Aries into the Modwright and analog through a VPI Traveler/Musical Surroundings Nova II.  I have a small listing area (my office) which is approximately 12 x 16 and I have some GIK acoustic panels in the corners and along my back wall.  If anyone has suggestions as to a "low-priced" tube amp that might give the KEFs a somewhat warmer sound I'd be willing to purchase used and then move up the chain to a higher-end amp if things work out.  Thanks in advance for your advice.

grnmtnboy77
grnmtnboy77 OP
16 posts
 
Thanks quincy. I am old enough to remember when Conrad Johnson was THE tube equipment to buy. Good to know it is still being used successfully, particularly in this setting. I’ll keep my eyes (and ears) open!

As to my choice of the Ref 3s, I have been a KEF fanboy for a few years now-I own X300As, LS 50s, and had the R700 before moving up to the Reference series. Not sexy speakers but very neutral and not fatiguing in any way.
theothergreg
219 posts
 
A retailer near me just got a pair of PrimaLuna ProLogue 7 mono amps in on trade and has them for sale at $2k.  They might be a good place to start with 70 wpc and self-biasing. 

Forgot to ask - are you planning on using the KWI200 as a preamp for your trial?  System synergy is an important factor when pairing an amp and preamp.  As I said, my MC275 might have some shortcomings, but paired with my preamp, it is pure heaven and the Ref 5s just disappear - regardless of what your VAC retailer might say :)
grnmtnboy77 OP
16 posts
 
Thanks theothergreg.  You raise a good point regarding the preamp.  My thought was to either get a tube integrated or to use my Modwright in the interim as a preamp and then move to a tube preamp or a DAC/pre combo.  Any thoughts on this?
theothergreg
219 posts
 
I'm a bit out of my depth when it comes to tube integrateds, so can't offer much in the way of help there. 

I think that if you are happy with the Modwright's pre function, it should be fine with a tube amp.  Most who want tube warmth usually go in the opposite direction with a SS amp and tube pre if they don't go all tube, however.


grnmtnboy77 OP
16 posts
 
Thanks for the input.  I hadn't considered simply interposing a tube preamp and using my Modwright as an amp only.  Perhaps I should consider this first?
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