Solid State or Valve?

[m_taufiq]

I have recently coverted to Valve Sound System and love its transparent, clear and closeness to original sound. There is a drastic difference between the sounds produced by these two types of systems.

My old system consists of the two piece McIntosh C200 Pre and Control Amp; McIntosh MC202 Power Amp 2 x 200W; Marantz SA15-1 SACD Player; B&W 685 Speakers with B&W Sub-woofer, Technics Turntable and a Nakamich 582Z Cassette Deck.

My new and second system consists of a pair of QUAD II Classic 15W RMS, valve power amps and QUAD QC TwentyFour Preamp with QUAD ESL 2905 Electrostatic speakers; SACD and turntable are the same.

The sound reproduced by the valve amps are so captivating, uncoloured and balanced that I am already planning to switch to the more powerful QUAD II Forty, 40W power amps! Later, to upgrade the SACD player, turntable and quality cables. Of course, first to dispose off the old equipment. Suggestions and comments are welcome!

 

[ID.]

Pictures please.

Seeing as you've changed just about everything of significance, I'd also suggest that there is a huge difference between your old speakers and electrostatics, particularly as the B&W 685s are pretty much budget speakers. As good as they are, it isn't hard to outperform them by spending more money. I'd personally attribute that uncoloured sound to the electrostatic panels, but what's important is that you are loving the sound. I'm sure the panels would've thrived on the end of you McIntosh power amps too 🙂

 

[CnoEvil]

It's hard to comment on the sound that other people like, except to encourage them to persue it.

The options for your taste, as I see it are: Valve; Hybrid (eg Pathos); Tube Pre + Solid State Power; or Class A Solid State eg. Sugden Masterclass / Accuphase / Luxman.

Each has their own strengths and weaknesses.