Best Tube Integrated Amp around $1000

I have a Jolida 502 in my bedroom system That I got used. I retubed it and like it a lot. I've owned high end ARC and CJ currently with the new Melos.

consider a used audion sterling -- should be about that price... and it is an awsome SET -- about 20 watts so have the right speakers. Consider the Anthem Integrated I (not II). Power is an issue in bl\oth cases.

I have a jolida 302a and would have to agree that the current version (302b) is likely to be unmatched in this category. Upgrade to Tesla E34L tubes and the magic begins!

Sorry for the double post - I refreshed the page and it posted again!

Unless I am seriously missing something, the Audio Refinement and Musical Fidelity amps mentioned are solid state amps. The Jolida JD302B retails for $950 and is virtually a poor man's Conrad Johnson CAV-50. The factory Chinese tubes leave something to be desired, but you can re-tube for a reasonable cost when you are ready to take the next step up. Output tubes are readily available EL 34's, four altogether just like the CJ, for 50 watts per channel. Okay it will never be a CJ but it is still quite musical.

Unless I am seriously missing something, the Audio Refinement and Musical Fidelity amps mentioned are solid state amps. The Jolida JD302B retails for $950 and is virtually a poor man's Conrad Johnson CAV-50. The factory Chinese tubes leave something to be desired, but you can re-tube for a reasonable cost when you are ready to take the next step up. Output tubes are readily available EL 34's, four altogether just like the CJ, for 50 watts per channel. Okay it will never be a CJ but it is still quite musical.

Audio Refinement Complete is best integrated under $1K new that I have heard. But don't be afraid of a used amp that normally retails for more. Some of the better British amps might be available for under $1000 if you shop. The Musical Fidelity is good, and you can use it to heat your house, too, as it runs hot.

Musical Fidelity a3,found at Audio Advisor.I own one, Alan