Which amp for Tannoy Dorset T185?

[theaudiohobby]

Hi,

I've recently bought a pair of used Tannoy Dorset T185 (60W, 8Ohm).
I like the sound and I'm very pleased with my purchase.
The speakers are currently plugged to an old Pioneer SA-506.
I'm not an expert audiophile but I have the feeling that I can get more out of the T185.
So I'm now looking for an appropriate amplifier to combine with them.
I have been given a list of Denon amps, can somebody tell me more about them?

Denon PMA 860 / 1060
Denon PMA 1080R
Denon PMA 900V

Is the PMA 900V an integrated Class A amp?
What is the difference with a New Class A amps?


I'm open to take in consideration other models/brands, so any valid alternative is welcome.
Thank you very much in advance.
Musical greetings

Firstly, Congratulations on your new speakers. Choice of amplifier very much depends on the vintage of the speaker in question, word on the street is that most pre-1970s models prefer tubes. However from the 70s onwards, many Tannoy speakers were designed with SS amplification in mind, As the Dorset is a late 70s model, I'll suggest that you experiment with some SS amplifiers before jumping on the tube bandwagon. Tube amplifiers may work, but there is not much quality at the $250 mark, therefore if cash is tight its safer to stay with SS until you have sufficient funds to buy a decent tube amplifier.

I doubt PMA-900V is a pure Class A amplifier, but given that it was designed in the same era as the loudspeaker there might some synergy there. Denon amplifiers have a good reputation and should work well with your speaker. I only heard newer Denon models, but not with Tannoys, however all have been uniformly good in the setup in which I heard them.

Sonys, Pioneers and Kenwoods of that era should also work well. Note of caution, whatever amplifier you end up with, make sure that its rated for 4 ohms operation or at least comfortable driving a 4 ohm load as the speaker nominal impedance probably belies the speaker's ease of drive and a wimpy amplifier will do the speaker no favours.