2. amps-preamps
  3. 190682-7079

Recommend me a tube integrated amplifier

I'm at a point where I'd like to try a tube integrated amplifier.

I currently have a Luxman L-509x driving a pair of Audio Note AN-K/SPx SEs.

I use a Marantz SA-KI Ruby CD/SACD player and a Technics SL1200Mk2 and AT-33SA LOMC for sources.

I also use a Rythmik E15HP/PEQ3 subwoofer to fill in the bottom end.

I listen mostly to jazz, classic rock at low to mid-level volumes, and my budget would be around $4k-ish used or new.

So, I'd like to get some recommendations for an integrated that would pair well with the AN-Ks.  Subwoofer connection mandatory either pre-outs or compatible for speaker level connection.  Phono pre inputs for MC desired, but optional.

No hybrids, high power not needed. No headphones either.  A remote would be nice, but I could suffer without one.

TIA

erikt

Showing 3 responses by freediver

freediver
1,268 posts
 

DON'T do it!!
 IMO the cost of having to retube every few thousand hours these days is FAR outweighed by ANY sonic gains from a tube Amplifer when a Class A Solid State amplifier from Luxman,Sugden or Pass Labs does EVERYTHING a tube amp does!!!

freediver
1,268 posts
 

There is NO DOUBT about the magic,natural warmth,wonderous sound staging & imaging of a good tube amp BUT you can get the exact same thing from Class A Solid State..
Also the average price of a Matched & Balanced quad(4 tubes) of current production EL-34 tubes is around $200.00-$250.00,a Matched & Balanced Quad of KT88 around $300.00-$350.00 & that is buying from Ebay!Buying from a reputable dealer who stands behind their product will add even more $ to that price..Vintage NOS tubes all these repliers talking about?MULTIPLE HUNDREDS of $$$ TO MULTIPLE THOUSANDS of $$$!!!Figure on retubing power tubes EVERY 3000 hours!Oh sure,they will last longer BUT around 3000 hours they WILL start degrading & changing the tone & DON"T believe ANYONE’s BS about that not being true!

freediver
1,268 posts
 

If you really want experience the magic you have read about,I suggest the Musical Fidelity A1 reissue integrated amplifier..Available well under $2k new,about $1250.00 gently used & will get you about 90% of what a $3500.00+ Class A will...Oh it will will THRIVE on your speakers!

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