Is the Eico HF 81 really that good?

Well,it does sound good in it's original condition. The one reviewed in Stereophile was HEAVILY modified by Sam's Audio Labs from Canada. So the chances of the original sounding as good are very unlikely. Is the original 81 better than moderm amps? Most likely not in most cases but it does sound real good especially for the price. BTW- the hf 12 and the other EICOs also sound very good. I love the ST 70 int. I have a hf 12 (mono) and a Motorola (mono) I found in a pile of older amps in my basement and decided to use them to power my ATOMS. It's laughable how good they sound even as mismatched as they are. Sometimes I feel some what ripped off with modern gear- very high priced compared to some of these (originial unmodified) vintage gems. I've put togerther many systems for less than $50 that can easily outperform systems priced at $5K BUT you have to maintain the old stuff. If you can get an EICO for under $50 , do it. It's worth hearing what goodvintage gear can sound like. More than that I wouldn't

Someone always has to dispute statements So , Larry510 sorry to have to tell you your wrong --- Sam's claim to fame is that he "completely redesigns" and even "fixes " design flaws in the original vintage gear just using the original trans and the chassis and case-which is what he did to the hf-81 reviewed by Peter Breuninger. Read page 159 in Stereophile. That ain't no basic restoration if you ask me. But you can ask Sam himself. Here's his # call him 514 485 3587. I've heard several of his "restorations" of vintage amps etc. They ALL sound great but not very close to the originals. None the less , the ORIGINAL 81 does sound good. BTW Larry510 , did you ever hear Sam's or an original hf-81? Curious to hear your impressions.

Baranyi, Bozaks are simply very unique and a MUST listen.But once you listen you'll find they are a MUST own. Tha Grands or the Symphony but if you don't have the space, go for the 302a which I feel image better. Have fun!