Good Suggestions for Tube Amps under 6k


I wanted to see if there were any group suggestions for an integrated tube amp or tube / solid-state combo under 10k or, even better, under 6k. Still looking for my final purchase in this part of my system.  Thanks everyone.

gregjacob

Thanks Steve.  Your Tannoys look impressive and you have a Decware amp I got in line for but gave up due to production times and bought the PrimaLuna instead.  I am not ready to purchase a new amp quite yet, even a reduced-priced LTA (very tempting).  If you haven't sold it in six months, I'd be ready to make an offer.  Currently renovating an old farmhouse (with new music room) and am hemorrhaging $$ in several directions.  I'd be willing to buy it later and hold on to the PrimaLuna as well but not yet...  Thank you.   -- Greg

OP, have you rolled your Evo 400? I'm assuming "yes" but if not, then I would start there. For me, it was like having a brand new amp. I went with KT-150s for power and Radio Techniques (highly rec) in the front two slots and Mazda Cliftes on the sides. I listen to mostly rock but also some jazz and electronic.

Laynes,

I have not ventured into rolling, neither with the EVO 400 nor the Lampizator Atlantic DAC.  I honestly can't think of one thing I'd change with the Lampi. With my system and ear, it still remains my favored DAC. Along with the Daedalus speakers, I have no curiosity to vary.  I tried a bunch of DACs, and none had quite the magic of the Lampi, so leaving it alone. Thanks for the specific tube suggestions for the EVO.  I would love to see that effect and do plan on exploring if I keep it, which I may do, and just add another amplifier for a different combo.

@carlsbad2 

Tube amps are divided into 2 classes, SET and class A/B

The fundamental distinction is SET/SEP and push-pull tube amplifiers. Push-pull can be class AB but also pure class A as well.  SET (DHT) SEP (Pentode) are class A by default. For example, the tube push pull amplifiers I had suggested earlier are class A circuits. Granted that class AB is the more common circuit approach.

Charles

As touched on by @laynes: When considering your budget for a tube amp I think you should be aware of possible extra costs for new/old tubes. When you go to your limit with the amp itself but soon find that new 300Bs would be something then that´s serious extra costs.