Adding a tube amp to my modest system?

B

bolderboulder

Audiophyte
I would like to add a tube amp (affordable, probably Glow) to my system and I'm wondering how to set things up.

Here is what I have:
Denon DRA-297 AM-FM stereo receiver (has pre out)
Pro-ject Debut III turntable
Musical Fidelity V-LPS phono stage
Sony Blu-ray player
Sony TV
two Infinity P252 speakers

The Denon receiver has A left/right speakers and B left/right speakers with the option of A, B, or A+B. I would be willing to add 2 more speakers if necessary/desirable.

We listen to music on vinyl, iPod, or occasionally laptop CD player. We don't yet have a dedicated CD player. We watch a lot of movies (but really didn't want surround sound) and no TV/cable.

Do you have advice on the possible options? Thanks!
 
BoredSysAdmin

BoredSysAdmin

Audioholic Slumlord
Welcome to AH,

Your current Denon receiver has good amount power already (50 Watts x 2 Channels Into 8 Ohms, 20Hz - 20kHz, <0.08 Percent THD).
Adding tube amp wouldn't probably help you, unless you are looking to colorize the sound they way tubes do.
Imho your best bet to improve sound quality is to upgrade your speakers. If you want advice for specific recommendation - please provide your budget, room size and type of music you like. and then if you feel it's not loud enough i'd suggested adding solid state amp for example from emotiva.
 
B

bolderboulder

Audiophyte
Thanks! Yes, the power output is fine, but I am interested in getting some tube sound. (I have lots of experience w/ tube guitar amps.) I listen to mostly avant garde jazz and experiemental rock, with some modern classical, bebop-era jazz, and some mainstream-ish stuff.

I do like the price points and design of the Glow equipment. From what I've heard the sound is about what I'd be looking for.

We tend to be in small city aparetments/condos. When we move to something bigger I'll have to upgrade, but that might not be for years.
 
BoredSysAdmin

BoredSysAdmin

Audioholic Slumlord
Glow One cost $648+25 shipping - Correct?

Before getting it (or any other amp) I'd rec for you to get Ascend CMT-340 SE mains for $568.00 ($30 shipping) plus optional stands to make them look like full towers.
They have 30 days in home trial - if you don't like them - return them
They rated at 92dB in room Efficiency and 8Ohm - I don't think you'd need to change you amp to play them very loud distortion free.
 
Last edited:
Rob Babcock

Rob Babcock

Moderator
I'd be more inclined to pick up a Jolida integrated or something off of Agon. If you can pick up an Onix Melody tubed integrated for $500 used that would be tough to beat.
 
H

Hugh-Melody

Audioholic
Exactly.

Rob knows what he's talking about.
I'd be more inclined to pick up a Jolida integrated or something off of Agon. If you can pick up an Onix Melody tubed integrated for $500 used that would be tough to beat.
 
M

markw

Audioholic Overlord
A bit late to the party, but...

Thanks! Yes, the power output is fine, but I am interested in getting some tube sound. (I have lots of experience w/ tube guitar amps.) I listen to mostly avant garde jazz and experiemental rock, with some modern classical, bebop-era jazz, and some mainstream-ish stuff.
... you do realize that the value of tube amps in music production (NOT REproduction) is that the added distortion they add is an integral part of the music. Do you want that distortion added to everything?
 
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