2. amps-preamps
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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

Showing 1 response by knotscott

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knotscott
796 posts
 

Good sound is good sound regardless of where it's made.  I had a 6.8 watt Nobsound amp that I bought for $235 to use while I was rebuilding my Dynaco 70s with the VTA mods.  It was surprisingly good.  Not as good as my VTA modded Dynas, but I was still impressed with the value.   Changing tubes can vary the sound, and is part of the fun.  Listen to as many as you can, and buy what you love.  You only need to please yourself.  

I'd also highly recommend looking into the VTA amps from Tubes4Hifi.com.  I think they represent extraordinary performance at an affordable price.  

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