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. |
