Getting into Tube Equipment


Hey there,

I have been gradually getting into vinyl and hi-fi for a while now. I mostly listen to folk, country, and some bluesy-rock music. Examples include the Grateful Dead, Sturgill Simpson, John Denver, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band.

I have been forward thinking about audio equipment I would like to have in the future. The components I am most eager to upgrade are my amp and phono preamp. For the amp, I am very interested in one of the Dynaco clones people are selling like the ST-70, ST-120 or the M-125 by Bob Latino. However, my first order of business will have to be getting a phono preamp with a volume control because these amps do not have a volume control. I would like to preface, I am not independently wealthy and do not expect to be in my life. Therefore, a $12,000 stereo setup does not seem like a reasonable option for me.

Can anyone please give me direction on either getting a Pro-Ject Tube Box DS or a used EAR 834P?

Additionally, If I could get some direction on an amp, it would be useful. Right now I own the Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary speakers and I really love them. The only thing I can see upgrading to is a pair of used Harbeth Super hl5plus speakers but this would be in the more distant future. Based on what I currently have and will be using for awhile, as well as my future considerations, are any of the amps I am considering a best fit? 

-Thomas
128x128captainblackleg

Showing 1 response by antiaudio

First, note the biases of hobbyists and professionals and pretty much everyone.
A disclaimer (if not disqualification): I read more than I listen. Next, music is not my No. 1 interest.
Over the years of checking in on Audio Asylum (and audiogon, but mostly to see 'what's out there' in terms of equipment), here are the biases I've noted:
Bias No. 1: a need for bass, large and loud-sounding
Bias No. 2: a preference for frequency extremes [note the relation to the above point]
Bias No. 3: a (peculiar) sensitivity to "W.A.F." [meaning "Wife Acceptance Factor"]. 
Bias No. 4: an insane interest in detail - meaning specs and stats . . . and, oh yes, details in the music, TOO [finally]
A.A. (Anti-Audio)