2. amps-preamps
  3. 174861-145450

Choice between two different integrated tube amps (SET & PP)

I'm interested in two different integrated amps that I can get locally.

One is the Primaluna Dialogue HP and the other is the Willsenton R800i.

The Primaluna is a PP setup with EL34's and the Willsenton is a SET amp with 805 tubes.  The Primaluna has upgraded pre-amp tubes but stock EL34's, the Willsenton has all stock tubes and the chifi tubes are trash, so would need to be upgraded.  The Primaluna is $3k and the Willsenton is $2k but will need quite a bit spent on new tubes, so they are pretty much the same price.

Anybody have experience with either?  Have read great reviews of each of them.  I'll take other recommendations too but the requirements are a tube integrated under $3k that has home theater bypass.

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Showing 1 response by alucard19

alucard19
372 posts
 

You may also want to consider the Black Ice Audio F-35 integrated.

Underwoodhifi has them new for $2,600.00

I currently own the Primaluna Dialogue HP integrated that I run with KT120 tubes, it sounds very smooth in UL.

I also own the Black Ice F-36 that I am running with the 6550 tubes, not as smooth or powerful as the Primaluna but still very good, it also makes for a good Headphone amp.

I just picked up the Decware Zen TORRI Mk5 around Thanksgiving and all I can say is that this amp is my favorite even if it does not put out over 20 - 25 watts with the KT77 tubes, it is more than powerful enough to fill my room  12' X 20' at only 5-10 watts which is very loud.

Ultimately only you and your ears can tell you what sounds best.

Good luck and keep on listening.

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