Tube integrated amp for my son's first system.
You could get ASL Wave 8s and a volume control. Don't need a pre if you are using only a cdp http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0302/aslwave8.htm Some vintage stuff is a possibility too but its usuallt takes some TLC. $200 limits the field. Cheers I remain, |
Look into Norh - they have an integrated that shows up used sometimes for $300 or so, $400 new. Also, Jolida 102b is a good option, but a stretch monetarily - it's $575 or so new, mid to high $400s used. It's the cheapest integrated from one of the lowest cost tube brands, so that's at least a point of reference (and it does have a balance control, which most below $600 won't.) $200 used for a tube integrated is, I'm afraid, quite unlikey. ps - I have 2 pairs of the ASL Wave 8s, and they are fabulous for the money. I use them for HT in my bedroom. You may find that a pair of these and a $100-$150 preamp is a more likely score. |
Jake: I have read about a few single source kit tube amps (-w- volume pots) over @ AA in the Tube Forum (around $135), and they may also come assembled. Might be cool to build one of these with your son (think you would have to make a wood base, as well, which is just an open box). One of the kits is/was available @ Parts Express/Parts Connection, something like that. Soundwise, they are said to be pretty good (probably 6-8 watts per channel). For a killer vintage amp a Pilot 240 (generally less expensive than the 245 which has heavier iron) would be a last stop for quite some time. I have been using mine (240) off and on for a few years now and only had to bring it up on a variac (all of the caps reformed well), but to be safe I would recap it as decent replacement caps are inexpensive if you restuff VS replace the can cap. I think that one of the simple kits would be more fun (for both of you) though. |
I like the idea of the Wave 8's. I think they're stopping production so now would be the time to buy. On Audiogon there's a hybrid Jolida 301 for $200 from jeffssoundvalues.com and a Dec Zen for $350. If you want something that will last and to do a diy project for him, look at the Ella at diycable.com for $559 + tubes. |
I have used a Luxman LV-1030u and a 105u A mid to late 80's Hybrid. Have had it up againt the Wave's. The wave's dont even remotly come close. They have no headroom at all and if your spearkers are less than 92Db they are sadly underpowered. Unless you want to use some large corner horns 100db + . Look for one of these on ebay , they are in the 200 range and a true killer sounding amp. One of those rare tresure's to be found. |
Wow, I don't think a vintage fisher or scott would cut it for a 10 year old. They may sound great but are delicate and don't play loud. Kids will be kids and do something stupid and blow the amp. How about a neat solid state amp and tube pre to get him started. Dynaco 120 and a pas 3? This would be much more abusable, play louder and still look vintage. You could even get him a matching tuner? |
Getting an amp is not an issue. There are plenty of good integrated tube amps for under $200. However, finding a good high efficiency speaker for bargain price is not easy. Unless you're willing to build him a Fostex speaker or pick up a pair of old Sansui XPs from some where. Heathkit SA-2, Pilot 240, Dyanco SC-35, Lafayette LA-224.. fisher... scott... You get the point. |
