China built tube amps


Well I had an interesting conversation today. I contacted a large dealer and let him know I would like to buy a certain integrated tube amplifier that is made in China. I was told he wouldn't sell me one. He said they are all junk.  Prima Luna, Line Magnetic, Cayin, etc, etc, he said forget it. If you want a tube amplifier buy an American or European built unit that can be serviced.

So, I am new to valve amplifiers and I want to try one to understand what they're all about and sort of get my feet wet with tube rolling etc. I don't want to spend a lot of money at first which is why I was looking at Chinese built integrateds. So my question is, without getting into any particular brand other than what I have already mentioned, what is your experience with Chinese built tube amps? As a whole are they reliable? Am I wasting my money if I buy one according to this dealer? I have to admit I was rather taken aback by how adamant he was. Thoughts anyone?

128x128falconquest

Well, I have pulled the trigger. I picked up a Black Ice Audio Jolida integrated that was modified by Jerrod at Black Ice. The upgrades include high grade single crystal wiring in inputs and output and Vishay Naked Z resistors through out the audio path and an upgraded power cord. It is due to arrive later this week. I'll be spending the weekend playing with this new toy. so we'll see how it goes.

Wow! That Carver Crimson 275 sounds like a real dog! $3k for a made in America amp that doesn’t meet specs? Do you know what I can buy for $3k? How on earth are people buying that amp, and who in the world is Carver using to build them?

Good on you for taking the plunge Falconquest! I hope it meets your needs. I’m more than happy with my Willsenton R8!

Congrats on your purchase. I once owned the Jolida Fusion preamp and found it to be a great buy.