If you already have a tube preamp, why not go for a straight amp vs integrated? There's a whole new world of options behind that door. I was specifically thinking of the VTA amps from Tubes4Hifi.com. They offer excellent circuits and build quality for the price, and you can roll tubes to suit your tastes...the tube rolling, can of course be done with an integrated amp too.
Can someone suggest a lush tube integrated under $3000 used
My main system it’s solid state preamp and amp. I’ll through in a tube preamp on occasions. Somedays I just miss the lush involving syrupy tube sound with small jazz and blues recordings. I know highs may be rolled off, not a lot of slam but can be so involving you lose track of time. This amp will be matched with some Joseph Audio first gen Pulsar, LSA 2 statement tower with ribbon tweeter and some Tiny Dancers.
I’ve heard good things of the Cary, Ayon, maybe an old Conrad Johnson cav 50, I just don’t have much experience with integrated amps. My speakers aren’t the most efficient.
I’ve heard good things of the Cary, Ayon, maybe an old Conrad Johnson cav 50, I just don’t have much experience with integrated amps. My speakers aren’t the most efficient.
62 responses Add your response
https://youtu.be/eyTSyclr-GQ Used Rogue Cronus Magnum II can be had around 18k$. Altec A7 was drivne by Rogue Cronus Magnum II fitted with Telefuken 12ax7 and Amperex 12Au7 which will cost 400-500 more for Nos tubes. You judge the sound yourself. |
I was hoping to find an integrated that can use some tubes I already have. I do have 8 Mullard xf2 and old winged C’s el34’s with a lot of life, 6sn7, rca black and gray glass vt-231, kenrads, some amprex 6922 pinched waist plus others. That’s one reason I was looking at the Cary sli80. I looked at the Vac I see a lot out there but there not selling and would hate to get stuck with it if it doesn’t work out and a little over budget. Little concerned with Cayin for repairs being Chinese. Always admired the Art Audio. |
You don’t have to settle for lush and rolled off. If what you want is involving to where you lose track of time then you don’t even have to settle for used. Slam? Raven Nighthawk will get you there brand new no syrup no problem. Talk to Dave Thompson, he really knows his amps, speakers and tubes, he will set you up with some of his vintage stock. These amps use three sets of preamp tubes just tell him what you want it to sound like he will get you there. |
