Old-fashioned vacuum tubes have found their way back into hi-fi designs - mostly in power amps. But these tubes have a lot going against them. Because this gear remains the province of audiophiles, prices can be stratospheric. Tubes run hot, deteriorate with age, and need to be replaced every two to four years. And the amps usually can't match the stomach punching bass of solid-state gear.
Mesa's Baron stereo tube amp overcomes two of these drawbacks. Granted, the Baron is quite a little space heater, and yes, you'll have to drop 200 clams on fresh glassware every few years. But when I paired it with Gallo Nucleus speakers, I hit pay dirt.
Baron's rich midband clarity and the three-dimensionality of its sound border on virtual reality. The sizzle of cymbals and transient snap of sticks hitting drums are startling in their accuracy and effortlessness. More surprisingly, this tube amp knows how to rock. The built-like-a tank Baron took all the deep-bass abuse I could throw at it.
Knobs and switches let you alter the sonic character. What you get is really several amps in one. This is literally true - these retro Siamese twins carry a separate power supply for the left and right channels (and two power cords!).
Mesa Baron amplifier: US$3,695. Mesa Engineering: +1 (707) 778 9505.
