Sweetest SET Amp below $5k

I recently traded a New Audio Frontiers 845 SE (25 wpc). This is a fabulous SET integrated amp that deserves to be much better known. It did an outstanding job with my 89 db/4 ohm Reynaud Offrandes, so I imagine it would be a good match if you're looking to go the SET route. The amp is available through frequent Audiogon advertiser "Audio Pimp," at an excellent price. In case anyone has ever wondered, Johnny was fantastic to deal with, btw.

Thanks Gary. Seems like a nice unit; certainly beautiful looking! The price is a bit too steep for me though, unless it comes up used for a lot less. I would also prefer a straight power amp over an integrated.

Smeyers
I have the 20 watt versions... And their preamp with Phono stage all hot rodded out.. I have owned Cary, Mcintosh, threshold, Odyssey, Classe', Forte', Rogue, Counterpoint, Ps Audio, Basic Denon and Harmon amps, yeesh can't think of them all to be honest..

All had character.. These are Gems and will not be replaced.. They drive excellent speakers to very hi levels, and bass response is killer with these Pure Class A tubes and huge transformers that they use on them.. The pictures on these are pretty deceiving, these are pretty large and very heavy built amps. All gold an chromed out, very hi grade parts and capacitors, point to point built, with internal silver wire etc..

Also these lay down more accuratley something like 26 or 27 watts per channel.. They are rated conservitivley, I have only heard them however on 95 db and above speakers, which go to way beyond rock concert levels with these.. Vocals and midrange sound huge, lots of air, and very smooth, a slight bit to the Warm side of tube sound, they use very neutral sounding capacitors stock however which are the sonic caps..

Good luck, oh and look around somebody did a review on these here on Audiogon a while back replacing some KR mono amps which were like 15 a pair or something. These have sold used about 3 times here over the last 5 years or so, believe me most people keep them.

Thanks Matrix. I'll take a closer look at their stuff. I did find some discussion on their products here, but could not find that review you mentioned. Had you heard their 45 watt version? I have 6-8 ohm 89 db sensitive speakers (although bass duties are handled by subs), so the 45 watt version may be more appropriate. I find it interesting that the 45 watt version is only about $350 more that the 20 watt version. Why get the lower powered unit if it's so close in price to the higher powered unit? Have you needed to speak to them at any time? I don't like when a manufacturer does not provide a telephone number on their website.

I use similar sensitivity speakers 89db and 6ohms and I agree with you Smeyers that 20watts is a minimum for SET output. I use a Viva Solista, 22watt 845 SET with a sub out too. My room is 22 by 20 foot and it has great control over the speakers.
Unfortunately, 20watt, quality SETs, are'nt cheap. Quality needs large expensive output transformers. I bought my Solista for about$4000, which seems the norm for second hand prices. If you can find one, you will love it. Everyone who has heard my system has said, if you want to sell the amp, let me know