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Introducing Tubes?

Hello gang!
Well, It's been said of my system that "you could use some tubes in there". So, here is what I have: McCormack UDP-1/ Lexicon MC8/Krell FPB400cx. Tyler Linbrook Signature System (1piece speaker).
The system started as a home theater set up, which for family reasons, I should keep. The Questions:
How could i add tubes to the setup for 2 channel listening? Just add a tube cd player? Add a cdp AND a tube pre amp? (The Krell will do the amplification. ) Would that be enough to get the "tube sound" that has been so often described here on Agon? (I've never used tube gear). What would be a good sounding tube CDP for a rookie tube guy? (around $1000 new or used) Suggestions and/or advice is welcome and appreciated.
Thanks so much.
paul
oldpet
oldpet OP
295 posts
 
Ok. -
Bluebull Re: voltages and impedences. Do the numbers have to match? Or be in a certain 'range'?
Mtbrider - Thanks for the recommendations!
Jond - I do 99% of my 2 channel listening alone :-) So this is more for me. Tube sound is just a curiosity i've always had. HT is with the family which is why the HT stuff needs to stay. Didn't you mention the Syrah before?
Newbee - I would like to hear a detailed, liquid and airy sound but still with good bass.
Improbabilitydrive - No, i don't feel like anything is missing in my HT system but i'm always wondering what 2 channel playback would be like with tubes.

Any further recommendations on pre amps and cdp's. Looks like 1K isn't gonna do it. :-)

thanks
Paul
lneilb's avatar
lneilb
107 posts
 
Everone forgot the Anthem Cd-1, a suprb choice on the used market.
vegasears
922 posts
 
I agree, a tube pre is the way to go. There are some jumpers/switches in the Krell that will need to set. Call Krell and they will fax or email you the instructions. It's easy and only takes five minutes.

All the Best

Allan
yioryos's avatar
yioryos
723 posts
 
I personally favor Rogue Audio Magnum 99 tubed line stage.
It goes for around 1400$ used(no phono version).
newbee
4,093 posts
 
Paul, For less that 1K you can pick up a EAR 834L. This is a very basic, simple to operate, preamp using 3 tubes which have very very long life (5yrs at 24/7 +/-). Tonally it is much like your Tylers - smooth and musical, but not dull and boring. It is voiced very much like my ARC SP10II. I have used one in a secord system for about 5 years with zero problems. Tube rolling with this is cheap and easy, assuming you want to fiddle with the tubes.
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