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Best new tube amp under $1500?

I just picked up a beautiful pair of Alon II speakers. According to the designer himself (Carl Marchisotto), these really shine with tube amplification. So any recommendations for something new, under $1500, that I can play moderately loud, and can handle the Alon IIs 4 ohm load? Oh, and I'd like the amp to possess as much SS-like dynamics and bass control as possible for the money.
dbxdx5
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Find a CJ CAV50, this is one of the finest US made tube amps.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
I agree with Mapman. 87db, 4 ohm "nominal" impedance and 10" woofer in a sealed enclosure means a much more expensive tube amplifier.

"I'd like the amp to possess as much SS-like dynamics and bass control as possible for the money."

I have typically found tube amplification to be superior to SS in terms of dynamics.
metman
233 posts
 
Seriously consider a JWN tube amp by Jim Nicholls. All his amps accept a variety of tubes and are all autobias even when changing tube types. They're extremely robust and all come with a liftime warranty on labor,and very reasonably priced. The only negative is the wait time which can be several months as this is a side business for Jim

jwnamplifiers.vpweb.com/
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
you may want to consider Speltz autoformers to raise the impedance of the speakers and tighten the bass

agree with above, it would be difficult to find a worthy tube amp for $1500 (especially new)

fwiw
glenfihi
525 posts
 
Might profit you to call Steve Monte at Quest for Sound. His SQ-88 tube integrated amp at 55 watts per channel may work well. At any rate, Steve is a great guy to speak with and a wonderful resource. Good hunting.
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