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Golden Tube Audio SE-40

I've been picking through the offerings of an estate sale and came across a Golden Tube Audio SE-40 power amp. I can't give it a listen as it's missing a rectifier tube and don't know if I even want to bother with the amp at all.
From what I've read so far, the amp has been known more for reliability issues than good sound. I presently use an Aragon 2004 and a Forte 44 and am wondering if this Golden Tube Amp is worthwhile.
Other pieces I have picked up from the estate are a Dynaco ST70 and a Sound Valves VTP-101 preamp, which I think are keepers.
Any opinions/experience/advice regarding Golden Tube Audio would be appreciated.
heyraz
pcking
49 posts
 
One more thing to add. Sonic Craft performs excellent mods to the SE-40 that will improve the reliability and sound. You can check it out at http://www.soniccraft.com/upgrades/se40.htm

I have had my two amps for 10 yrs after the mods with no problems.
zowie
68 posts
 
I had a pair. Never had any reliability problems (nor with my SEP-1). But I didn't think they were very user friendly with the hassle to bias them from the bottom and the cost of retubing relative to the value of the unit. But I do miss their sound.
timothyshields
1 posts
 
I have had one for nearly 20 years modified by Jeff at Sonic Craft. I still have not found an amp as listenable as the SE-40 for less than $5K. I cannot recommend Jeff highly enough.
faust3d's avatar
faust3d
10 posts
 
I had one in the late 90's. It was an OK amp but it had some hissing issues and was soft/warm and forward in the mids. Low-end was also somewhat anemic and soft. I was using it with Klipsch speakers. One thing that it did very well was 3D sound-stage with nice layered details.

You can get better amps for a bit more money and even for less money.
br3098
994 posts
 
Faust3d said:
You can get better amps for a bit more money and even for less money.
I have not heard a tube amp that sounded better than the SE-40 for $350 or so. If you can do the upgrades yourself, spend another $100 (or less) and it becomes a giant-killer. Agreed not the best, but a hellava amp for under five bills.
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