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Getting into Tube Equipment

Hey there,

I have been gradually getting into vinyl and hi-fi for a while now. I mostly listen to folk, country, and some bluesy-rock music. Examples include the Grateful Dead, Sturgill Simpson, John Denver, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band.

I have been forward thinking about audio equipment I would like to have in the future. The components I am most eager to upgrade are my amp and phono preamp. For the amp, I am very interested in one of the Dynaco clones people are selling like the ST-70, ST-120 or the M-125 by Bob Latino. However, my first order of business will have to be getting a phono preamp with a volume control because these amps do not have a volume control. I would like to preface, I am not independently wealthy and do not expect to be in my life. Therefore, a $12,000 stereo setup does not seem like a reasonable option for me.

Can anyone please give me direction on either getting a Pro-Ject Tube Box DS or a used EAR 834P?

Additionally, If I could get some direction on an amp, it would be useful. Right now I own the Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary speakers and I really love them. The only thing I can see upgrading to is a pair of used Harbeth Super hl5plus speakers but this would be in the more distant future. Based on what I currently have and will be using for awhile, as well as my future considerations, are any of the amps I am considering a best fit? 

-Thomas
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Showing 1 response by smrex13

smrex13
645 posts
 
For what it's worth, I would not recommend looking for a phono amp with a volume control.  You will significantly limit your choices, and there's no guarantee that the volume control will be of high quality or that you'll like the sound of the phono pre directly into an amp.

Your Dentons (and the Harbeths you mention) are lower sensitivity speakers, and a tube amp may not be ideal.  I would suggest going with a tubed phono stage into a high current solid state integrated amp that puts out 100+ watts per channel (Parasound, Musical Fidelity, Bryston, etc.).  You'll get the tube sound that you're looking for, the power to drive your speakers well, and a volume control on the integrated.

Again, just my two cents based on my experiences.  Good luck!
Scott
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