AVS › AVS Forum › Display Devices › Ultra Hi-End HT Gear ($20,000+) › Rumor re New Expensive Tube Mono Amp to be Exhibited at CES!
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

Rumor re New Expensive Tube Mono Amp to be Exhibited at CES!

post #1 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:05pm
Thread Starter 
I heard a rumor that there's a new very large tube mono amp to be exhibited at CES that's gonna be modular in design, allow you to swap tubes, etc. Only catch is you're gonna need like 3-4 folks to move it and place it, its so large and heavy.

Anyone heard anything about this?

Its supposed to be a giant killer of tube amps.

What would you want featurewise and designwise if you were spending big bucks for an expensive tube mono amp?

Bulldoggers gonna really have ta save his money now.
Reply
Reply

AVS Top Picks

post #2 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:06pm
Too early for April Fool Steve!
Reply
Reply
post #3 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:13pm
I hear the Model A is going to be available next year in more than one color.
Reply
Reply
post #4 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:17pm
I hope I can get it in black.
Reply
Reply
post #5 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:49pm
Actually rumor is that Vladimir Lamm will be show casing his much awaited ML 3.0 mono amp which is his new SET rated at 30 wpc and has an MSRP of $135K.

Apparently each channel has a separate stand alone power supply---ie 4 boxes in all

He has been working on it for years. Was to have been released last year

And this is no joke

it will be a killer tube amp for those who want to sell their Wavac amps
Reply
Reply
post #6 of 72
12/22/06 at 3:59pm
What I don't get is this. With upper end guys, it's not the measurements, it's the subjectivity. "The measurements don't count". So, if Lamm comes out with something that is more expensive, what, it has to be subjectively better?!? How do we know it's a "killer tube amp"? Because it's $135K? Even if it measured better, that wouldn't matter because "the measurements don't count". So, that would make that pure conjecture, now wouldn't it? I remember when actual audiophiles used to judge a component based on its actual sound, not on its "predicted" sound.

One thing I've found though, if you have a particular flavor for which measurements don't matter, there's a product that costs 1/2 to 1/10th the price that is just as good, but doesn't have the name or the price to make the sound predictably a "killer".
Reply
Reply
post #7 of 72
12/22/06 at 4:09pm
And why are so convinced that it won't be a killer amp?
Reply
Reply
post #8 of 72
12/22/06 at 4:10pm
Quote:


there's a product that costs 1/2 to 1/10th the price that is just as good, but doesn't have the name or the price to make the sound predictably a "killer".

And of course we all know what that product is --right John
Reply
Reply
post #9 of 72
12/22/06 at 4:44pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

And why are so convinced that it won't be a killer amp?

I never said I was or wasn't. There's no subjective data either way upon which to make *any* conclusion about its subjective sound. Now, if you're an objectivist and recognize +/- 8dB FR errors exist and can hear them, and this helps fix that, maybe.
Reply
Reply
post #10 of 72
12/22/06 at 4:47pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

And of course we all know what that product is --right John

I was thinking of the Audio Innovations Alto or the Audio Refinement Complete Amplifier or any of a number of very nice products that over perform rather than just being expensive.
Reply
Reply
post #11 of 72
12/22/06 at 4:57pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Alimentall View Post

I never said I was or wasn't. There's no subjective data either way upon which to make *any* conclusion about its subjective sound. Now, if you're an objectivist and recognize +/- 8dB FR errors exist and can hear them, and this helps fix that, maybe.

C'mon man...the amp hasn't even been released yet and you seem to be questioning data that no one other than Vladimir has seen. Check back next month John
Reply
Reply
post #12 of 72
12/22/06 at 5:30pm
OB, except for digital amplification, there really isn't anything new under the sun in amplification. We're just going round and round and round with this. Every year, a dozen or more companies claim to have done stuff that no other person in the last ~100 years has been able to do. It's like "hey, we've achieved perfection, but for another $50K, you can have *better* than perfection". Or something like that. I'm just saying that "killer amp" is really just if that's what you perceive it to be. But doesn't it make sense to *actually* hear it first?!? It's not like making a leap forward in speaker design or room correction or DSP or something where we actually have places to make large strides.

Besides, if it were only $10K (at which it could probably easily be profitable in quantities), would you say the same thing? The "it's the most expensive thing they've ever done, it MUST be incredible" thinking is what drives most of high-end, but it has precious little to do with reality.
Reply
Reply
post #13 of 72
12/22/06 at 9:43pm
Thread Starter 
More re the new tube mono amp - its real and will be at CES:

Features of the new tube amps.

1. Monoblock design.
2. Completely separate isolated power supply for the power output stage and driver stage. Even has 2 power cords.
3. Modular design. Completely change the circuit topology and tubes being used by plugging in different modules.
Power output module can be push-pull 300B at 45 watts, push pull 6550 at 100 watts, push pull EL34 at 50 watts, etc.
Different driver and rectifier modules available.
Each module is individually 100% EMI/RFI shielded.
With all the different available modules this is 30 amps in one.
4. Modules simply plug in. Once the new module is plugged in, everything is automatic. No need to re-bias tubes or click any switches or anything. The modules are as easy to change as plugging a desk lamp into a different outlet.
5. No capacitors in the signal path. Interstage coupling is done with transformers.
6. Both power supplies have massive choke filtering.
7. The B+ supply module can be solid state or tube rectification.
8. The monoblocks are all made in North America with all parts, labor, and materials from North America.
9. Tube sockets are milled Teflon with gold pins.
10. Chassis sides are made of 2" x 6" aluminum. Bottom is 1/4" thick aluminum.
11. Sides and top are 1/2" thick granite.

The "granite" is a granite like material but one which sounds fantastic as used in audio components.
Reply
Reply
post #14 of 72
12/22/06 at 10:58pm
Quote:


except for digital amplification, there really isn't anything new under the sun in amplification. We're just going round and round and round with this.

John, I continue to be amazed as to how much smarter you are than the rest of us
Reply
Reply
post #15 of 72
12/23/06 at 12:05pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

John, I continue to be amazed as to how much smarter you are than the rest of us

Hey, I never said it wasn't *cool*, but what about "cool" makes it *sound* better (especially since it's not available for audition)? I just think your statement that it "will be a killer" is a perfect underscoring of how self-described audiophiles jump to conclusions about sound quality based on pure marketing (and then stick by it no matter what). Maybe it's like getting 5 different tube amps in one but on the other hand, how much do 5 state of the art tube amps cost in total? Not $135K!

On a regular basis in motorcycle and car engineering, companies tout huge performance enhancing technologies - four wheel steering, forkless suspension, etc, etc. Many of these work, but many get their butts kicked because they can't hold up to more boring technologies. "We did it, it *must* be better!!!" But then reality kicks in. There is cool and there is better. You're falsely associating the two somehow.

Anyway, I'm sure that amp is *cool*, I just find it amazing how easily people are sucked into marketing and assume that they can hear that it is better (without even hearing it)
Reply
Reply
post #16 of 72
12/23/06 at 12:30pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Steve Bruzonsky View Post

More re the new tube mono amp - its real and will be at CES:

Features of the new tube amps.

1. Monoblock design.
2. Completely separate isolated power supply for the power output stage and driver stage. Even has 2 power cords.
3. Modular design. Completely change the circuit topology and tubes being used by plugging in different modules.
Power output module can be push-pull 300B at 45 watts, push pull 6550 at 100 watts, push pull EL34 at 50 watts, etc.
Different driver and rectifier modules available.
Each module is individually 100% EMI/RFI shielded.
With all the different available modules this is 30 amps in one.
4. Modules simply plug in. Once the new module is plugged in, everything is automatic. No need to re-bias tubes or click any switches or anything. The modules are as easy to change as plugging a desk lamp into a different outlet.
5. No capacitors in the signal path. Interstage coupling is done with transformers.
6. Both power supplies have massive choke filtering.
7. The B+ supply module can be solid state or tube rectification.
8. The monoblocks are all made in North America with all parts, labor, and materials from North America.
9. Tube sockets are milled Teflon with gold pins.
10. Chassis sides are made of 2" x 6" aluminum. Bottom is 1/4" thick aluminum.
11. Sides and top are 1/2" thick granite.

The "granite" is a granite like material but one which sounds fantastic as used in audio components.


got a photo?
Reply
Reply
post #17 of 72
12/23/06 at 12:39pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by javry View Post

got a photo?

4 of these amps are almost done for CES per my source. I will have a photo soon.
Reply
Reply
post #18 of 72
12/23/06 at 2:15pm
Wow. Luv to see the pictures.
Reply
Reply
post #19 of 72
12/23/06 at 3:10pm
Quote:


Hey, I never said it wasn't *cool*, but what about "cool" makes it *sound* better (especially since it's not available for audition)? I just think your statement that it "will be a killer" is a perfect underscoring of how self-described audiophiles jump to conclusions about sound quality based on pure marketing (and then stick by it no matter what).

Let's put it this way.......

Vladimir has been working for years to bring this amp to market. It was supposedly going to have debuted at CES 2 years ago and then last year. Their has been much time and R&D spent by Vladimir doing what he does best.

As for the MSRP I do agree with you and having just bought my SL55 AMG it is priced out of my league.

BNow for an affluent attorney like Steve Bruzonsky, he will probably have them in every room....if for no othr reason but to serve as base board heaters in the cold Arizona winter weather
Reply
Reply
post #20 of 72
12/23/06 at 3:20pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

BNow for an affluent attorney like Steve Bruzonsky, he will probably have them in every room....if for no othr reason but to serve as base board heaters in the cold Arizona winter weather

Didn't you mean to say that as the attorney I am "effluent" (thats waste water, etc.) HA!

I am a looker and listener, but I've set my limits financially, happy with what I have, don't wanna piss of my wife anymore, and having new tube mono amps that take 3-4 folks to lift each one - GEEZ I'm too old and sore for that. DARN!
But it sure is interesting.
Reply
Reply
post #21 of 72
12/23/06 at 3:43pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Steve Bruzonsky View Post

Didn't you mean to say that as the attorney I am "effluent" (thats waste water, etc.) HA!

I am a looker and listener, but I've set my limits financially, happy with what I have, don't wanna piss of my wife anymore, and having new tube mono amps that take 3-4 folks to lift each one - GEEZ I'm too old and sore for that. DARN!
But it sure is interesting.



I do agree. I never thought that I would ever buy another car when I am looking to make my life easier rather than more complicated. As for my gear like you I am totally satisfied and feel that the journey for me is over. I have reached audio nirvana.

Unfortunately my video end of the room is due for upgrade next year. I am going to bring Bruzonsky in as my consultant.
Reply
Reply
post #22 of 72
12/23/06 at 4:28pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

............. I am going to bring Bruzonsky in as my consultant.

good choice
Reply
Reply
post #23 of 72
12/23/06 at 4:42pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by javry View Post

good choice

only if he promises not to charge the hourly attorney rate
Reply
Reply
post #24 of 72
12/23/06 at 4:57pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

only if he promises not to charge the hourly attorney rate

How about if I charge twice the going rate?
Reply
Reply
post #25 of 72
12/23/06 at 5:32pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

Unfortunately my video end of the room is due for upgrade next year. I am going to bring Bruzonsky in as my consultant.

Hehehe

Have a peek here, Steve Bruzonsky would approve.......

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=770486




Reply
Reply
post #26 of 72
12/23/06 at 6:38pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

........As for my gear like you I am totally satisfied and feel that the journey for me is over. I have reached audio nirvana.

.....

OB!!!!

It is quite understandable that you be satisfied but you know the journey is not over...

HAPPY HOLLIDAY to you all...
Reply
Reply
post #27 of 72
12/23/06 at 8:10pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by tim View Post

Hehehe

Have a peek here, Steve Bruzonsky would approve.......

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=770486





Actually, OB, you don't need to pay me anything. Forget the newer digital projectors and displays. Go with the above Tim Martin dual (or even triple if you want) 9" Electrohome blended CRTs with the Blendzilla video processor/scaler,
of course with Mike Parker's latest CRT board, etc. mods. Heck, it won't cost half of one of your stereo Wilson speakers and it will look so good that your system will seem to sound much better! DO IT!

CRTs are like vinyl. Old goodies still are the best!!

Tim Martin beat me to it. We went out to look at XMas lights and I was planning to point you to this setup anyway.

And OB, once you buy this, then Tim can afford to buy these new mono tube amps I've been talkin' about cause Tim loves tube audio.
Reply
Reply
post #28 of 72
12/23/06 at 11:32pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by FrantzM View Post

OB!!!!

It is quite understandable that you be satisfied but you know the journey is not over...

HAPPY HOLLIDAY to you all...

Frantz....trust me...it is
Reply
Reply
post #29 of 72
12/23/06 at 11:34pm
I was going to get back into vinyl, but the new car side tracked that idea.
Reply
Reply
post #30 of 72
12/23/06 at 11:38pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by oneobgyn View Post

I was going to get back into vinyl, but the new car side tracked that idea.

Thats only cause you insist on getting into vinyl by buying a turntable that costs no less than 20 grand!!!@@@



OB wants to upgrade his video monitor - a 30 year old Kloss Advent Novabeam projector with a curved 60" screen. I think its time. HA!
Reply
Reply
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: Ultra Hi-End HT Gear ($20,000+)

AVS Top Picks

AVS › AVS Forum › Display Devices › Ultra Hi-End HT Gear ($20,000+) › Rumor re New Expensive Tube Mono Amp to be Exhibited at CES!