What's the best EL84 amp?

@dhcod Roger made some improvements in the MkII version and laid the groundwork for more improvements in the amps circuit design prior to his death. Note that there are multiple MkII versions (Roger felt as the designer he could make changes anytime he wanted), where the MkI retained the same circuit and specs throughout its run. You will find those who feel the MkI is a better amp, just as there are those who felt the RM-9 MkI was better than it's MkII version.

I tell this to anyone who is interested in buying a used Music Reference amplifier these days. Inspect the interior very carefully. If necessary get pictures of the interior and send them to us to verify the amp has not been modified beyond reason. Lately we have seen too many Music Reference amps come into the shop for repair that were modified to the point where putting them back to original spec wasn't worth the cost to the owner. In fact we now refuse to service amps modified beyond reason.

Thanks for the info! This is incredibly helpful.

+2 Decware SE84UFO2 amp!

Mike

I had Oliver Sayes build me a custom unit based on the RH84 circuit. It's an amazing single ended pentode amp. It nicely showcases what the EL84 can do; it's hard not to like a well-designed, well-built EL84 amp.  It's holographic, and I find it a tad punchier, and bass probably a little tighter, than single-ended triode amps I own and have used in the past.  Overall, I'd say it has the air and liquidity that one usually wants in a single-ended amp, but maybe a little faster and a touch less bloomy than the typical SET.  

Music Reference RM-10 Mk 1 acquired!

Thanks everyone for all the great suggestions. I'll circle back after trying out the RM10 for awhile. It'll be interesting to hear it vs my 9W 300B SET.