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Tube Amp Recommendation for a solid state guy

After years of using solid state amps I'm thinking of purchasing a tube amp. My current amp is a Bryston 4B ST, it's a great neutral amp w/ loads of power but I always feel like I want more warmth and mid bass bloom.

I've been researching various tube amps from new "Chinese" imports to older / vintage units and I'm unsure which is the right amp for me. I mostly listen to modern blues, rock and Jazz so I want an amp with guts and power. My biggest concern with tubes is there apparent lack of "kick" so I'm hoping to find the best of both worlds.

My budget is $750 - $1,500 and I'm not afraid of buying second hand. Can anyone make a recommendation?

Thanks!

B
bluepearl
aptquark
99 posts
 
Just my 2cents....I have an ONYX SP7 INTEGRATED (45watts/channel) and it powers my Thiel 2.4's with plenty of umph...Thiels are 87-88 db. I also use a Mac MC2500 (500wpc) with the Thiels...and Im not let down at all by that little 45wpc amp. So, as far as tube amps go...I would recommend a used VTL amp. Wonderfull bass and the overall sound is quite surprising when you are use to SS.
aptquark
99 posts
 
Let me make a correction...I have a MELODY SP7...interchangeable with ONYX SP3...except for the 38 vs 45 watt difference.
yoby
290 posts
 
The way I achieve "the best of both worlds is to mate a tube preamp with a SS amp. I also use a tubed CD player. Good listening, Jeff
tvad
9,467 posts
 
No amp recommendations can be made before your speaker's sensitivity and impedance curve specifications are known.
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
Class A transistor amps have many of the characteristics of tubes and solid state but tend to be out of your budget. One of the older Pass Alph (?) Amps might be worth looking at. I would try to borrow a tube preamp as Yoby suggests and see how you like it. There are transistors out there with a more tube like sound than Bryston, but Tvad is right, it depends on what speakers you are using. Have you tried the Bryston on other speakers?
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