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Best SET power amp below $5,000

Curious to get the benefit of the knowledge in this forum.

I currently have a low power SET amp, paired with 94db loudspeakers. Sounds great, but tbh, I bought it 20 years ago, and even then, my process was not particularly thoughtful.

Not trying to start an argument about push-pull vs SET. Though I am not an electrician or sound engineer, my instinct is that a simpler circuit is better. At this point, I am just interested in what folks here think are the best options for SET amps—in the $5,000 price range. I am also open to the feedback that the price range is too limiting.

I am open to new or used and given the many years that vacuum tubes have been used for this purpose, curious if there is any technology advantage in newer products, holding their condition constant (ie comparing a 1950s era SET amp to a 2022 design, both in mint condition).

 

saulh

Showing 3 responses by danager

danager's avatar
danager
980 posts
 

I'd never heard of PX-25.  So I read a review.

https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0801/artaudiopx25.htm

Sounds like a keeper to me.  If you just  have a couple of thousand to spend.  (New amp minus reselling the old one)  you might consider just a cap upgrade.  Finding a reliable tech might be difficult but probably not impossible.  As long as you have access to new tubes I would think you'd be hard pressed to find a better sounding amp in that price range,  different but probably not better.

danager's avatar
danager
980 posts
 

If you’re in no hurry (up to a 2 year wait) Decware is releasing a new 300B amp that according to the owner/builder is supposed to be pretty darn special. I haven’t seen a price yet but should be in that $5000 range.

(Note) if you want to dump your PX-25 at a good price hit me up 😁

danager's avatar
danager
980 posts
 

A recent review form the HIFI Cave about a super rectifier add on really intrigued me.  I've rolled rectifiers and they significantly shaped the sound so his review has credence with me.

iFi Cave review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ldwtuyWLq0&ab_channel=HifiCave

What I found is that Space Labs makes a 300b SET amp with a super rectifier built in.  http://www.thebestamp.com/Single-Ended_Tube_Amps/IA-300B-STR.php

This might be one of those technological advancements you were seeking and it's in the price range.

 

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