I'll start by saying that I have zero experience with tube amplifiers.....I'm really not even aware of makes & model numbers, and have done no real research as of yet. I'm currently running my Altecs on a Sansui G-9000 receiver and have no complaints about it. The sound is fabulous........and the receivers amp section has power to spare, and while the big solid-state Sansui is a keeper-for-life.....I do want to experience something different one day for the sake of variety.

A while back I was talking to a local gentleman that powered his system with a Threshold amplifier. I cannot exactly remember the model......I THINK it was the Stasis 500S. Now, my questions here are not spurred on by THAT.....but what he said to me when I mentioned the speakers I'm running are Altec 19:

"Oh....you REALLY need to run speakers like those on tubes......I'm tellin' ya....."

Interesting, because I've heard that a zillion times over the years and still have not pursued it. I suppose I could have just ask this guy the questions I had.....but did not. I just nodded my head in agreement and moved on.
So..... Here is what I'm wondering:




Can a tube amp be used with a solid-state pre-amp?
Can a nice vintage tube amp be had for less than...say $700.00?
Are ALL tube amps low power as compared to solid state?
(If so, how can a 15 wpc tube amp possibly run better with my Altecs than my 160 wpc Sansui?...in other words...not clip if driven loudly?)
Are replacement vacuum tubes readily available for vintage amps?
Suggest some good makes........vintage vs. moderen?


I'd be happy to hear some thought & opinions......not ready to shop just yet....just want to know what fellow Altec users think, and would I really have a massive improvement in sound over my wondeful solid-state G-9000?

Just what is it about tubes anyway?


Much appreciated,
Russ