SET Integrated (Warm Sound)

[southall-1998]

This is down to personal taste. I enjoy tube amps, with that warm, smooth, rich laid back sound. I also like the top end to be a little rolled off.

I also like the idea of having an autio-bias system.

I'm not on the market yet to purchase. I guess second hand budget would be £500-1k.

So, which (Class A) SET Integrated amps could cater for my needs?

Thanks.

S.

[Frankyc2003]

Hi Shane,

I think that you might find that different valves will offer different types of sound.

My experience with SET is that an EL34 based amplifier like an Icon Audio Stereo 40i (sometimes seen second hand for £500-600) switched to Triode Mode (Not exactly SET but close) will have tremendous authority and dynamics.

A Yarland 845 SET (sold mine for £800) will be delivering more defined (leaner) bass, with the same kind of authority.

A 300B Audion Silver Night Mk1 (bought Mine for £770 off ebay) will overall highlight the lushness of the midrange of any recording while still offering great bass and dynamics. Obviously that's my experience and it probably isn't shared by everyone.

My overall comment on valve design is that they all deliver natural sounds, not the last word in definition and detail, but hours and hours of a very enjoyable experience. As long as you use the right speakers though…

What type of speakers would you use your amp with?

[Andy831]

What type of speakers would you use your amp with?

This is the most important question to ask yourself. If your speakers are insensitive then remember that Set amps may well struggle to deliver and you may be disappointed. Try and get a "borrow" of a set amp before you commit.