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
dogearedaudio
120 posts
 

I'll second the suggestion of Black Ice Audio.  They're a venerable company (used to be Jolida), they're based in the US and they have very good support.  Their integrated amps have subwoofer outputs.  I haven't heard their Fusion line but a friend has the CD/DAC/Streamer and loves it, and he's a very picky tube guy.

But it's also true that most well-made tube amps will not have an issue with running subs off the speakers taps.

erikt OP
268 posts
 

I've thought about the tube preamplifier route, but have read about SET magic on the power side - so I'm going 'whole hog'. smiley

flyr
7 posts
 

+1 for Decware. 
website has a classified section if you don’t want to wait 

 

jlbkmb1958
28 posts
 

Lost me at the subwoofer output.

doyle3433's avatar
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doyle3433
315 posts
 

Enthusiastic vote for Cary. I currently have an SLI80HS powering a pair of Volti Razz and feel the pairing is heavenly IMO. Has pre outs for a sub. (Sometimes I swap in my little SVS micro3000)

Back when, I worked in the only real HIFI store in town, (The Speaker Shop) and we sold Cary. Always a super well built product that simply sounded amazing.

i listened to a couple of the Black Ice integrateds at the FLA show and really enjoyed them. Also the Margules i240 was pretty awesome too.

hard to beat Cary direct when they have a sale! 

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