2. amps-preamps
  3. 134618-110450

Old or new gear

Greetings,

I am trying to buy my first tube amplifier. Budget is about $2500-3500. I am not very good at doing electrical work myself and do not intend to restore/repair/update the equipment myself. No time for another hobby. 

Looking to get something very reliable to use for years to come. I tend to keep my equipment for a long time, and do not upgrade things frequently. Trouble free listening is the goal. US made (or Japan or western Europe) would be really nice. Looked at Chinese models, but decided not to go that route, although there are many very good quality brands with great reviews. The top of the line Chinese units are not much cheaper than US made ones, through.

For that money, I am looking for something like quicksilver mid monos or decware MK4, brand new, both made in US, with good reviews as far as build quality and reliability goes.
.
Alternatively, there are amps here on Agon, such as CJ, Cary, VPI 299d, VTL de luxe 300,  VAC rebaissance 30/30 MK3, all used, about 10-15 years old, some in mint conditions with low hours, under or around 3K.

I am looking more for good sound and reliability than a specific amp type (pp vs SE) or output tube design.

Any advice? Again, not looking to resell but this is always a consideration as well (never know what the future holds). Main concern is quality and long term reliability.
Are there better transformers, caps, resistors etc... now than 10-15 years ago? Again, not looking to upgrade anything myself and do not have the time to spend in repair shops.

Thanks for your advice.


sophie999

Showing 1 response by jsm71

jsm71
141 posts
 

Most of the amps people have suggested with the exception of the Atma Spheres are traditional tube amps using iron core transformers.  In your price range you will be hard pressed to differentiate other than by feedback and time in market. 

Take a look at Linear Tube Audio for both amp and preamp.  These are David Burning designs, should run your easy to drive Polks fine in a bedroom, and tubes auto-bias and will last 10-20 years.

Their 10 watt amp is in your budget, is really stronger than 10 watts and will sound better than the traditional options.  That plus their MZ2 preamp will make magic together.   Plenty of gushing professional and audio show reviews over the last few years.  I'm a customer with their bigger amp and preamp, not affiliated.

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