2. amps-preamps
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Help me get started again. Tube amp...

I had a full on audio addiction up until about 10 years ago when my first child entered the world and my priorities changed.

Now as my kids are spending more time with their friends and in activities I find my time at home wishing I had a system to appreciate.

Luckily I still have some little Stirling Broadcast LS3/5a V2 tucked in a corner, a nice little passive preamp stored in a drawer and a sudden CD player that has been playing Disney music faithfully.

I need pair a tube amp and I may even get some Vinyl.

My first little tube amps (which I sold here and wish I still had them) were VTL tiny triodes (the late version) and then I had fun playing with all kinds of ST-70 circuits.  The VTL was better but rolling up my sleeves and redoing the ST-70s was great.

Since I have been out so long I have no clue what is what.  I could use some direction for a lower priced tube amp to get me started.

It was recommended to me to look for Audion 300B Silver Knight mono-blocks or Rogers E-20 or E-40 amps from Doug Stirling.  Finding these is perhaps not as easy in good working order and at a cost I like.

Any thoughts on how to best start up my addiction again?
portlandlay

Showing 1 response by manga

manga
37 posts
 
Since you can DIY and are also somewhat familiar with the ST70, I would suggest that you look into a VTA ST-120 over at tubes4hifi. It is I would say. somewhat based on the old Dynaco but much improved.

The input and driver circuit utilizes a Mullard topology now and there are two versions of the driver board available; one that uses the 12**7 family and one based on the octal 6SN7.

All components including the pre-punched SS chassis and the transformers are new US made parts. At under $1K as a kit, it is most certainly a great deal.

http://www.tubes4hifi.com/bob.htm#ST120
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