2. amps-preamps
  3. 1145561580

integrated tube amp recommendations, with remote

Hi Audiogoners,

I'm getting very excited planning my first true hi-fi system, and am looking for recommendations.

I'd like an integrated tube amp for <$1500, new or used. I'd like it to have a remote control, which curiously seems to be somewhat rare on tube amps of this price range. Unless someone can convince me that not having a remote improves the sound quality, I feel this is a requirement for the convenience factor.

I normally listen to music at "average listening volume," but occasionally host the cramped apartment party and need to crank it, so do want an amp that can deliver enough power, recognizing that it's about quality of the power versus wattage, etc.

I've so far seen only a couple that meet these criteria:

Antique Sound Lab AQ1001DT
Rogue Tempest II (a little pricier than I wanted)

Also looked at the Primaluna Prologues, Jolida JD202A or JD302B, but no remotes!

Any other ideas?

Thanks,
Ravi
defiantscientist

Showing 2 responses by kehut

kehut's avatar
kehut
668 posts
 
Ravi,

Look at the Cayin A-88T/KT-88 integraded. Sells new for $1895. Ive seen a few used in the $1500 range. I love mine, and the remote is great! Kt-88 tubes with 45 very powerful watts in Ultralinear mode. Killer sound IMO.
kehut's avatar
kehut
668 posts
 
Yes Bartokfan...Id say that is correct. The A88T is rich and textural sounding in the mids with excellent extension of the bass/highs without harshness. Im not fond of the 300B tube due to its limited extension. True it has glorious mids, but must be matched well to the speaker driven. Usually the single driver/hi sens types, but will still only really get the mids.

The A88T/KT-88 is a balanced sound with superb resolution and transparency. Definately competes with higher priced seperates IMO. I think Harry Weisfeld of VPI loves his A-88T and plugs the amp as well in the AS catalogue.
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