Agreed, tube amplification for stats needs to be selected with care, limited bandwidth can soften the top end. With that being said one does not need to 'break the bank'. Rogue Audio makes some of the best tube amps for the $$ out there. i drove my last pair of Logans(Montis) with these...
The C5 ZO6 stands out to this day as 'the' best performance for the $$ spent on the planet IMO. Sold my '02 this past Spring for 25k, if someone can show me something better for that money I'd be shocked !
other than 'obvious' visual damage one of the first things you'll notice is the high frequency become 'muddled' and 'soft' as you so mentioned. If everything checks out, Imo you would be best to have knowledge of their replacement cost and work that into your negotiating play. Truth be told a...
First off if the Sony receiver you stated actually boosts those specs it's a poor match for Stats. Rated power into 4 ohms less than 8 ohms ? As a general rule with stats and planners, is that a good amp has the ability to 'dbl down' (4ohm rating would be dbl that of the 8ohm rating) An...