LT Texan

it's called ebay

LT Texan

You have different types of tubes, like the 845 is a triode and the KT88 is a beam tetrode. You'll find strong opinions all all tube types. They all have been engineered for certain characteristics.

One of my tube amps is a 6550 which is an American tube very similar to the KT88. I like this amp.

You also should consider the circuit, single ended or push pull (I have both - and then choose push pull ) Although, I love my 2A3 single ended Triode amp, too!

And all tube amps are pretty much engineered not to need preamps.

Finally, if ML says it's speakers are 4 ohm, use a 4 ohm output from the amp. If it doesn't have one, you'll have problems. Also, the speaker's impedance curve could be "reactive" and a bad match for your amp.

So.....find a reputable dealer and follow their advice.

cobalt

Too much of a PITA. Was looking for something simpler.

ChristianR

I love these debates and what not, what tube sounds like real music, fast, dynamic, etc

Theres not a tube amp made that can be as realistic as the very best SS amps such as Accuphase, Spectral, etc

Mike in CA

I don't know if there's been much of a "debate" in this thread. The OP said he wanted a tube amp so there were some opinions around that. I have tubes in one system because they fit with the other vintage gear (not saying tubes are exclusively "vintage"), but for my main system/home theater SS was the way to go. As with most things, context is important.

A.Wayne

Tubes vs SS... Porsche vs Ferrari ..... analog vs Digital ... Beer vs Budweiser...

cobalt

Now there is something I am sure most of us will agree on.

DrJay

HAHAHA

scubadawg

Hi Mike

What Home theatre reciever are you using?

Thanks

LT Texan

2 channel stereo is serious. Home theatre is not

Mike in CA

I'm using an Integra 9.8 preamp/processor that has no on-board amplification. It's hooked up to 2 Adcom power amps for my 7 channel system; a GFA-7805 5 channel amp for the F/C/S speakers and a GFA 555 stereo amp for the rears.

Mike in CA

The heart of good home theatre system is comprised of quality main speakers, control, amplification, and signal sources in an appropriate listening space, just like a good 2 channel system. It has the flexibility to be used in 2 channel stereo or multichannel mode. The 2 channel system, obviously, is stereo only and doesn't have that flexibility.

I'm not one of those people who believes that a $1,200 1 meter interconnect cable will make a dramatic (or even audible) difference in system performance, so maybe I don't qualify as a "serious" audiophile in the eyes of some. But I have been involved with this hobby/passion/disease for over 40 years and have a pretty fair idea about what makes a real difference in getting good sound and what doesn't. I've also learned to stay away from blanket statements like "2 channel is serious...home theater is not". Just my $.02.

ChristianR

Pretty absurd quote. My 7.1 6800 watt PHC system is pretty stunning

SleepRM3

From the perspective of a minimalist stereo (2-channel) enthusiast, home theater systems require the sound signal to be over processed.

I suppose the mono sound enthusiasts consider stereophiles "not serious" also, but many monophiles have died, or are dying out.

Same debate goes for mid-engined Caymans vs rear-engined 911s--mid-engined Caymans/Boxsters/914s are for "sissies", rear-engined 911s are for the hairy-chested man driver.

Serious drivers know the mid-engined layout is a superior drivetrain format (even if you can apply a few of the 911s strengths to road-race driving)--but 911-philes stubbornly cling to Butzi's hip (back then) design.

I suppose when all the 911-philes die out, our future driving enthusiasts will fondly remember the anomoly that was the 911 (ha ha).

ChristianR

^^40+ years and the 911 driver still cherishes every moment behind the wheel of there 911, I know I do