Tight-Budget Tube Integrated... Help


Greetings all. I'm looking for a used tubed integrated in the $300-400 range. I currently have Mordaunt-Short monitors, 90DB/8ohm, good-for-the-money speakers. I listen to a WIDE range of music, and do occasionally need to hear some Metallica or Jurassic 5 (with emphasis on the "occasional", everyday music much more like Radiohead or Dave Matthews), and am looking at my options. After pouring over the archives, a few options seem to keep appearing, Jolida 102, Jolida Hybrids, Almarro, Sophia Baby, ASL, etc. Has anyone heard/lived with the Radii products?

Having heard lots of hifi over the years, I realize my budget means compromise, but I want that "tube groove" back. No funds for seperates right now, so integrated it must be.

I have had two Jolida 302B's, both of which developed problems. Frustrated with the reliability issues, I tried a Rega integrated, but sold it. Even my "non-audiophile" girlfriend commented how "flat" it sounded (what a peach! - uh, I mean the girl, not the Rega)I don't need a lot, but I need RELIABLE tube sound in a small, cheap package. The vast majority of my listening is at volumes that you could talk over, if that helps.

I am much more concerned with quality than quantity, if I can even afford to choose at this dollar level.

Thanks in advance friends!
aldenruss

Showing 2 responses by gthirteen

I am at a loss.
I, too have seen those Radii amps and licked my chops.

I wish you good luck in your search for a good tubed integrated for under $500.

THe only thing that I know of would be a Pair of the ASL wave 8 mono amps and a cheap Creek volume control.
Probably not enough rock for you there, however, though...

I'd ask that sweet girl in your life for $300 to add to your bank.

For 7 bills, you are getting into a range where there are many more options available to you.

GOod Luck!!!!

Joe- let me know if you want to get rid of that Jadis...
Spoke too soon-

Anthem Integrated One- $450 for sale today.

THese are decent products, no? Made by Sonic Frontiers, if I'm not mistaken.

Chime in, fellow Tube Lovers.
THis might be a good opportunity.