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Tube integrated amp recommendations

Now that I have my second system up and running, I'm thinking of getting an all tube integrated for the system. I've been solid state for most (if not all) my audiophile life. I had a tube-preamp with a class D a few years ago but didn't care for it and I sold it off and continued on with my SS reference system. So now I want to try an all tube integrated with my Tekton Lore Reference speakers (96db efficient) and I'm trying to do some research. I know there're a ton of tube folks on here, so you're recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I would like a headphone jack but not a deal breaker. Will be used for streaming/CD. This is what I'm considering so far (budget $3-5k):

1. Audio Research I50 (new release)

2. Luxman Neoclassico SQ-N150 

3. Raven Blackhawk MKiii

4. Conrad Johnson CAV45

Thanks so much!

 

bluorion

Showing 3 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,838 posts
 

Personally I will not buy an integrated amp without  a headphone capability.  I have a Bel Canto c5i and a $100 pair of Grado s80e phones with that are hard to beat. 

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,838 posts
 

I’m an Audio Research fan and that new I/50 integrated has caught my eye. Hard to go wrong with ARC unless just not tubey sounding enough for some.

Conrad Johnson has been around a long time also always impresses when I hear.

i have not heard the others but they all of course have their fans. I heard some Raven amp once at a show and it was perfectly fine but did not strike me in particular either way. Not as much of a fan from what I read though as some. Not as extensive a track record as ARC CJ or even Luxman but the owners seem to love Raven.  Each have their own aesthetic that should also be a factor in deciding. 

mapman's avatar
mapman
21,838 posts
 

There are some very nice looking tube amps on Amazon for just over a grand that many people there rave about. Looks nice, good price many happy music loving customers , not just a few audiophiles who alone seldom agree on what sounds best or even good anyhow. I think I’ve read good things about them here as well. Tempting.

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