Best value Set amp for under $1500 used is ok.


Looking to power some large horn speakers and replace my SS Audio Research upgraded LS10 power amp because it needs service and I am not ready to service this unit for a variety of reasons not worth discussing here.

Specs for the Viking Acoustics L’Instrument speakers

 

are:

Sensitivity: 98 db

Time Alignment: Drivers time-aligned mechanically and electrically.

Bandwidth: 18Hz - 19,000 (18Hz - 50kHz with optional super tweeter)

I have tried 845/805/KT88/120 in non set builds. I’d like to try a 300B or similar set  design for these without burning the budget. I’m based in Australia and prefer to use 240V capable amps.

128x128johnread57

Showing 7 responses by johnread57

Thanks to all who suggested the Willsenton and other suggestions. I will certainly do some more research.

@dekay I couldn't edit the post to correct the LS10 reference. Actually the power amp is an ARC D240 MkII. I will read that post you've linked with interest, thanks.

I've had a Prima Luna Dialogue Premium amp previously but not connected to these speakers, earlier I was using the Elac 247.2 and the combo was very good.

If I consider budget only, 300B tube amps are hard to find and fit the bill. This push pull amp seems like good value: YAQIN MC-84L Class A Push Pull Tube Amplifier and there are others by Dared that are in the budget range. 

This is a Living Room system that is coming off a cheap Marantz 1509 AVR and using preouts to couple to the power amp. And the reason for that is the furniture that is impossible to find: furniture that has openings high enough and multi-level to fit pre/pro for example outside of IKEA or a dedicated hifi rack that costs a fortune for the length required.

Living room speakers and media unit 

There are a small number of boutique amp builders here in Oz...outside the budget.

I spent the day watching reviews and the 800i gets a good rap as does the 300R too. Outside of budget…great value etc.

Indeed @charles1dad  the price was the key feature along with many reviews. I have a Krell DUO XD300 in the process of sale that will fund this purchase. Then I may also fund the repair to another D240 MK II that was destroyed by FedEx who would not accept a claim against them. 
Hopefully this small purchase results in acceptance by my wife as we were listening to Stockfisch SACD simply on YouTube last night and marveling at the sound just through our cheap Marantz 1509 AVR. Super surprising. Demonstrating what great speakers bring to a Hi-Fi system. Appreciate your interest here too.

G'day @charles1dad 

I have the 6Ohm version Horns.

Placed order for this unit as a trial...

BOYUURANGE A50 MKIII 300B SINGLE-END CLASS A TUBE INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER REISONG

I notice this is Mark III so will be interested to see developments. Also saved 10% plus 6% discount on this unit...

There seems to be a number of upgrades available for this amp by Skunkie Design Electronics. 🦨  I may just upgrade the 6sn7 tubes with the lower grade Linlai tubes in the near future after arrival.

@westborn 

Lol you should hear these speakers with my cheap Marantz AVR. Simply amazing, seriously. I’ve sold the Luxman M900u. My Audio Research D240 MKII here is in need of service. My other D240 MKII is in the USA, smashed by FedEx who are not paying insurance claims at all these days. My Berlin R Type II speakers were smashed by FedEx, did I say they are not paying insurance claims, yes I did, and these have been completely rebuilt. Now waiting for sale. This seems like an ideal moment to not join the two year waiting list for a Decware or invest in a Kondo or Audio Note etc, hey why not try an entry level 300B as a starter set? 

Doing that.