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 4 responses by mechans

mechans
3,048 posts
 

There are Quicksilver amps that are built here and should be in your price range (whatever that really is).  I have heard a few and think they are very good for the money.

If you liked VTL wait until you can buy VTL, or perhaps even Manley which his ex wife owns and runs.

mechans
3,048 posts
 
That was a really low price for that amp.  I think the owner might not have known what to ask, or there is something more nefarious under foot. They are not very expensive amps so the OP can consider a new one or wait for a used one. There are a number of other amps out there to consider, I think the OP is familiar with ST-70s etc. there are always an abundance of various rebuilds kits and modded units out there to consider.
mechans
3,048 posts
 

They are more costly than I remembered them to be.  It has been a while since I last visited his web site. I guess if he wants one specifically with or without Rodger's hand wound transformers. 

Some of the other offerings seem affordable, if you can live with 25 watts or less  and like EL-84 power tubes.
The RAM Labs selected tubes were always very expensive.  I haven't used many and don't want to make blanket statements , but all tubes as they age can get noisy.

mechans
3,048 posts
 
I don't know if anyone has mentioned Prima Luna from Kevin Deal.   They have been very popular and come in a  few price points.  I would imagine that a used one would be accessible to you. 
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