Picking a Tube integrated amp


Hey all. Trying to figure out my amp situation and am looking at a few integrated to upgrade to. 

I currently have a McIntosh integrated and want to move to tubes. I have the vivid v1.5speakers and a Clearaudio Concept. Looking at the following:

—Primaluna Dialogue premium or HP.
—Audio Research VSi60
—Octave v40SE

Question...does the AR still hold up? It’s likely it will be a used model, but curious if it’s still competing with the others I listed. Any others to consider?  

Thanks!


 
rubytuesday

Showing 3 responses by 2psyop

I bought a Line Magnetic 216 integrated amp from a dealer. It blew a transformer and the company DID NOT give me any problem. It was shipped to a repair center and they replaced the transformer. I really like the LM Audio amp and it beat out a Primaluna, Rogue and Cary I had considered buying. My two top choices would be Audio Research and Line Magnetic SET amps.
BTW my amp might have had a problem with the heavy load I placed upon it by driving planar speakers. I think the more current a speaker demands should dictate how much current your potential amp can provide.
gillatgh- Let us all know how you like the Rogue. Tubes are addictive IMO. 
Keithtexas- Good question. From my experience good deals can come from used gear, but good quality customer service is from a reputable dealer. In my case, my dealer assured me he would handle problems with my amp, if they occured. He was good for his word and so was Line Magnetic Audio. They are a small company.
One of the best (and worst) addictive habits one can acquire is the new old stock NOS tube search. I like old Sylvania military grade tubes and old RCAs. But there are so many with Telefunken and Mullard as favorites with many tube fans. Have fun!