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Classic el34 tube amps versus current models

does anyone have direct listening experience on how the classic el34 tube amps of my youth (marantz 8b, dynaco stereo 70', conrad johnson mv45) compare sonically to the current el34 amps? i have seen some of theses older units for sale and have considered buyin one. i am in the market for a 2k -3k amp and saw an old marantz 8b in that price range.

i am a sucker for midrange and soundstage and listen to alot of female vocals. my speakers are original rogers ls3/5a and proac tablettes, both of which love the el34s.  i am inbetween amps right now, buthave recovered from a financial setback so i am back in the market
meiatflask

Showing 4 responses by meiatflask

meiatflask OP
134 posts
 
Not to change directions of the conversation, but a friend suggested that if I like el34 amps, I should consider 300b single ended.  Any comments on the 300b versus the el34? 
meiatflask OP
134 posts
 
Charles1dad-

Thanks for your comments on SET amps.Given an under 3K budget, I suspect that I am in the mediocre range of 300b amps. 

Leaning toward used for best value, what are the EL34s amps that you consider excellent that I should consider.  I have seen classic Marantz 8b in the ~3K range, which is why I asked my original question:  (ignoring the investment aspect) are there current 3K El34 amps better than the old 8b?
meiatflask OP
134 posts
 
getting back to the el34 amps, i find it interesting that any of the older  conrad johnson (mv45,50,52 etc) or new (classic 60) did not come up in the conversation.  while it has been a while since i listened to cj, i remember them as very warm midrange. or are the other brands just plain sweeter?
meiatflask OP
134 posts
 
i did just purchade a prima luna and plan to use it in stereo mode (for now) with el34s. its the dialogue premium hp. 
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