Tube Amplifiers?


I am new to tube amps (I've had several tube pre-amps) and was wondering what people's thoughts are on the following: VTL-ST85, VTL TT-25, Anthem AMP 1, Rogue 88 and Quicksilver Minimites. I'd like to keep the cost around $1500
robk
Hey, Jab. Mesa still is a strong company. They just tired of hi-maintenance audiophile types, like me ;~) They had been designing underground, cult favorite audio gear since the 70's and decided to bring a couple of products to the more conventional market some 20 years later. I have found service, support and attitude to be fantastic. They still do the "tri-tube" upgrades. And, if a tube goes bad within six months, they send a new one free. Good guys with as many or more patents for tube designs than anyone else out there, whose business will still be going strong after many more companies we know are gone. Talk about industrial build quality, the Baron makes an excellent addition as fitness equipment since you can use the "roll cage" as handles for raised push ups. Not joking about this! They may not be designing and selling new products, but Mesa is most certainly going strong. Happy New Year!
had one it was superb and improved greatly once a tier 1 line stage was feeding it. i suggest you contact SF and ask them if the capacitor problems have been solved, mine would let go every year or so...SF took care of the problem immediately when it did occur. good luck and good listening
Buy used and forget about VTL unless you have a dealer within driving distance. If you phone Luke for service he will be of little help.
Hiflyer, I suggest an Atma-shere otl. Maybe MA-1MK11 or M-60 MK11. Both you may can find used at a good price(if you're patient) I've tried just about every amp on the earth SS and tube. I was avoiding OTL's because of the bad rep. they have ( thanks to a man named Futterman). I finally decided to take the plunge. I wished I had done it long ago. Whole other realm of enjoyment. This is not hype. If you don't believe now, you will believe later after much spent $$$, that if you believe now the $$$ you save can towards an OTL.