2. amps-preamps
  3. 195737-202215

Help with first tube amp

I’m looking for some guidance on purchasing my first tube amp.

My current setup: Speakers: Sonus Faber Sonetto 1 G2 bookshelf speakers.  (I plan to add a subwoofer soon)

Amp/Source: Cambridge Audio EVO 150 (all-in-one integrated with built-in streamer & DAC)

The EVO 150 made sense originally because I didn’t have room for multiple components, but after some renovations I now have space and flexibility to build out a proper system.

Since this would be my first tube amp, I was hoping to keep costs reasonable and have been considering: •Muzishare X7 (KT88) •Cayin A-88T (KT88) •A used Muzishare R100 (300B) available locally •A used Brunoco Terra 6L6 PP available locally

My questions:

1.    ⁠Will I actually hear a meaningful difference between my EVO 150 and these lower-cost tube amps?
2.    ⁠Are my Sonus Faber Sonetto 1 G2s at 87 db sensitivity a good match for these lower-power tube amps ?
3.    ⁠Anything I should keep in mind as a first-time tube amp buyer who listens mostly to vinyl and streaming?
4.    ⁠What If I used the EVO 150 as a pre amp with the tube amp as power source only?  Would that still give me that tube sound ?

Thanks in advance — really appreciate any advice from folks with experience!

licarijo

Showing 1 response by joeycastillo

joeycastillo
136 posts
 

OP

I would recommend that you look seriously at the Prima Luna line. its affordable and sounds good. the Chinese brands can sound good but it’s a hit and miss. some say OK but others are displeased. so, to save grief, just go with a prima luna

look at Upscale audio to see what you like. integrated or separates, it all depends on the investment. The only other Tube power amp (actually integrated) that can compete with the primaluna BUT may take some serious thinking is the Line Magnetic LM-845a but that is another level all together. 

 

Lastly, Look at the Rogue Audio Tube power amps or integrated amp.

for me it's a tossup between Prima Luna and Rogue. I suggest that you do a home Evalutation. 

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