I switched from solid state to tubes about 2 years ago and boy Im really impress with the sound of tubes verses solid state. The Icon Audio amp is just a great value the sound is so alive, that of course depends on the quality of the recording plus the Oppo/Modwright player adds to the realism of the music it's like sitting at a Jazz club and listening to a live session. Let's not forget the Focal speakers they are sooo sweet and the bass they provide is clean and very articulate sorta like fat free bass if you will. The panels on the wall are (bamboo) from SMITH&FONG linear sound collection. These are used in commercial application to provide sound deadening of echo prone rooms and here I use them to tame the room and boy they are wonderful just don't over do it with the panels. Happy listening to all Audiogoners no matter your system it's the music that counts in the end. PS, The Rega TT is also a wonderful piece!
an attractive set up you have. I've never really set up a dedicated space for my system--meaning a room just for the system. Yes, the tubes do bring a sweetness to any system. Currently my thing is to have tube preamp with solid state amp. I had a Modwright LS100 and the difference was so obvious. Although the LS100 is a bit big for a standard size rack although moving the feet would work to fit it in better.. I sold it as looking for a 6sn7 based preamp that will fit better which brings me to asking if you have heard the Icon Audio LA4 mkiii? I don't think there is much in the forum about it and time to look again.
