2. amps-preamps
  3. 173969-1453

China built tube amps

Well I had an interesting conversation today. I contacted a large dealer and let him know I would like to buy a certain integrated tube amplifier that is made in China. I was told he wouldn't sell me one. He said they are all junk.  Prima Luna, Line Magnetic, Cayin, etc, etc, he said forget it. If you want a tube amplifier buy an American or European built unit that can be serviced.

So, I am new to valve amplifiers and I want to try one to understand what they're all about and sort of get my feet wet with tube rolling etc. I don't want to spend a lot of money at first which is why I was looking at Chinese built integrateds. So my question is, without getting into any particular brand other than what I have already mentioned, what is your experience with Chinese built tube amps? As a whole are they reliable? Am I wasting my money if I buy one according to this dealer? I have to admit I was rather taken aback by how adamant he was. Thoughts anyone?

128x128falconquest
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

op

that dealer you spoke to is full of sh#t

jl1ny's avatar
jl1ny
418 posts
 

Fwiw- I’ve owned Prima Luna and it was superb quality. 

esiu
2 posts
 

Regardless of where is a piece of hi-fi equipment manufactured, components inside the unit speak for themselves!

noodlyarm
103 posts
 

Wow, I think we are all missing the essence of music reproduction.   It’s not where it’s made, or the circuitry, or the name on the faceplate.   It’s all about the music and service (to keep it sounding great).   I’ve had great and bad experiences with American made, Italian, English, Chinese, Japanese, etc.    Tube, SS, or hybrid is irrelevant.


Remember the MUSIC is what counts!

divertiti
225 posts
 

Your dealer is lying to you to push the products he wants to sell you, and he's using his xenophobia to appeal to people's prejudices. It's a pretty telling indication of his character, that's not someone you want to deal with.

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