Expensive Tube Amplifiers

After reading all the comments in this thread, I realize there are a lot of in-depth experts on tube amps here, and I really need some advice from you. I have a SS power amp and a tube preamp, but I don’t like the result. I love the transparency and true tonality I get with the DAC connected directly to the power (LUMIN LEEDH volume control), and I’d like to add a tube amp at that last stage. My speakers aren’t very efficient (88 dB/1W, 4 Ohm impedance). I listen 3.5 meters from my speakers, and my room is 26 square meters. I hear 70-75 dB (very random peaks at 82 dB). I’m fantasizing about an SE 300B, but I don’t know if it will work, and I live at the end of the world, so I can’t afford to buy and do trial and error. My budget is $4,000. I found an open-box Cayin Soul 170i (Class AB) for that price, but I don’t know if it will have the magic and holography of a Class A. I would greatly appreciate your advice...

+1 whart

I bought most of my tubes about 8 or 9 years ago, for what now seems like pennies on the dollar. In a bi-polar period, I stocked up on NOS 6922/7308, 12AU7/7316, 5R4GYS rectifiers, EL34, and KT-88 tubes. Their now worth more than any amplifier I own. I need to send them out to be tested and get test sheets, then sell what I don't need.....anyone know a reputable testing service that's reasonable?

Hey tutunez,

your speakers are not really ideal for a tube-based amp more so for a Class A type design. Unless you spring for a 845 based Tube amp, you will not be able to realize the speaker's full potential. have you considered replacing your speakers?

I have heard a 300B SET amp driving Reference 3A de Cappo speakers and they sound wonderful

Joey, You wrote, ,,,"your speakers are not really ideal for a tube-based amp more so for a Class A type design." What did you have in mind? PP tube amps can run in Class A at least at low power output, and SETs are pure Class A by definition.  But if you are thinking tutunez needs an amplifier with a low output impedance to drive his low impedance, low efficiency speakers, then yes, I agree. A tube SET amp does not seem to be the best choice.

@tutonunez @lewm 

I assume joey meant single-ended class A.

Tuonunez, I would agree that 88dB/4 ohms is not a good match for single-ended, unless it's an 845.  But that's a lot of heat, weight and expense.  $4K is a healthy budget for a quality push-pull tube amp.  40-60 watts would work fine.  Look at Black Ice, Rogue, Prima Luna or Quicksilver.  Personally I would not buy a Chinese amp, and not for political reasons.  You just don't get much support.  OTOH, if you're at the "end of the world" your choices may be limited to Asian distributors or maybe some EU companies, I couldn't say.