Help with tube amps

"Romantic accoustics" seals the deal for Conrad Johnson. That magical caramel tube glow in the midrange would be a good syno match with what you describe you are looking for. CJ has that is spades. Good luck

I used to own a Golden Tube SE-100 (EL-34 based), and just loved the sound. It can be had for about $1000, used. Customer service might be a problem as the company went under, but there seems to be some companies that repair GT gears. Good luck with your search!

Decware's Zen Triode amp will only provide about 2 to 3 watts per/ch., but with the right speakers (93 dB +) it will make wonder why you ever bothered with SS gear. I got a revision "B" from Decware for $425 (the current "C" costs $500) and I have little desire to listen to my 120 w/ch "arc welder" anymore. This amp will show you every weakness in the rest of you system. Currently I have my CD player going direct into the amp (variable input) and it drives full-range drivers (50-14 kHz) in simple bass-reflex cabinets. The lack of a crossover makes a HUGE difference. For the human voice and for jazz ensembles I have not heard better in my system. Imaging and soundstage are amazing. The most remarkable thing is that I used to turn my SS amp up to hear detail, and this is no longer needed with this little gem. If you seek LOUD music playback, with pants-flapping bass, this amp is not for you.
If you're willing to spend some serious cash on high-efficiency speakers (97 dB+) this amp will play loud.

In any case, Steve Deckert is a joy to do business with and his money back guarantee might make your decision easier.

I hope this helps,
MikeS

mcintosh mc240 can be had for that money in rough shape but works fine...the mc225 is a little more money but less power..and sounds better and rarer

audio note p2se single ended pentode amp..powerful for 17 watts and 1000 used..the OTO model makes 10 watts and some say it sounds a bit better..a little less money...

dynaco st70 or st35 good starter tube amp with good power

audio research classic 60 and VT60

There are others in your price range but they are all low powered SET amps and not very desirable; ie, cheap low powered SET amps are not very desirable!

Hello Emily. I would concurr with the Conrad Johnson recommendations as well. The older mv45,mv 50, mv52 are wonderfully musical with near zero ear fatique, and can be found for far less than your budget. All of them are el34 based. Roger magesky's rm-9 is another consideration. Best of luck on your endevour.