Inexpensive Tube Amps

It’s so easy for people to look down upon audiophiles that are new or have a minimal budget . In the price range you listed , avoid circuit boards . Also get something that uses common tubes that you can keep for a better amp when you move on . Get what you can adford and enjoy the learning experience . Someday when you move up/on, this will be the second system in your office . I had a Yamaha RV-X 1400, 105 wpc x 7. I changed it for an Anrique Aound Labs 30 wpc integrated. Had a really fun time . They were in the same price range and the 30 watt tube amp sounded better . If you can get to the $1k range , build a Bob Latino or buy a Will Vincent . You will love it , especially with upgraded driver tubes . New production power tubes are really quite good . Quicksilver is one of many quality affordable amps too . On the used market $1k will get you something that will have adequate power and decent sound quality . Interconnects , cords and tubes will be useful when you move on . As far as the sub $500 stuff , listen to the advise and don’t be afraid to return a couple . You fill find a synergy that will please you . And remember , like alcohol , drugs and women , tubes are highly addictive . Enjoy my friend , life is too short . Regards , Mike B. 

Will afterthoughts to my post. Check places like , The Tube Store Parts Express , Madison Sound too. The DIY stuff is cool and at least gives you a better understanding of circuits. I was lucky to be in high school in the early seventies . I took three years of Electronics and played with basic circuits and tube related radios and stereos . I think one of the Chinese amps you listed will be great . Then when your budget allows play with inexpensive full range driver speakers and DIY enclosures . Paper cones , no caps , no crossover, Belden bulk wire . This will sound great , be affordable and be perfect in a smaller room . I have $8k in a SEP, full range system . And it sounds better in a medium room and you must sit in “ The Sweet Spot “. My point is , with careful planning and some home building you can enter into the secret world of Single Ended ( like ) , Full Range tone and clarity for pennies . What you will find with your little amp and the paper cone speakers , is a headphone like Nirvana that people with a Mac 275 don’t comprehend. Will you’re the “ Soul Surfer “ in a world of Ocean Liners . Welcome to the “ Locals Only Break “! Check other chat sites that specialize in DIY single driver and you’ll meet the 60-70 year old geeks that love this stuff and don’t spend tons of money . Also if you come across a pair of ASL Wave 8’s , get them and restore them . I’ll close with this . About a year ago I was talking to Dennis Had , founder of Cary Audio . He was having a blast with some cheap paper cone drivers that he bought used for $20 , and he can have anything . Happy Listening , Mike B.