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
rooze's avatar
rooze
635 posts
 

Heard Synthesis amps with Audio Note, Harbeth, and ProAc speakers up at Deja Vu audio near DC and fell in love with the sound. I can't recall the model amps I heard that day but I was fortunate enough to get a good deal on a Synthesis A100 Titan from my local shop and it's a great sounding integrated amp, as I've mentioned elsewhere. 

gbmcleod
456 posts
 

@freediver

I had a Music Fidelity A1 for 10 years before i gave it to my sister. It’s a great little amp, but it doesn’t do what tubes do, which is to present a much more holographic presentation (assuming that that is what’s on the record). It is, however, very clear.

chenry's avatar
chenry
184 posts
 

gbmcleod:

The AR i/50 is not a hybrid tube integrated. The audio signal path is all tube, push-pull design. 50W. The solid state elements are the panel controls and the Lexie tube displays. It has a headphone amp that may be solid state and optional solid state DAC and phono preamp modules. Hybrid implies that some components in the audio path are solid state (e.g. tubes in the preamp section but solid state in the amp or the reverse.) The i/50 has tubes in the driver and power sections.

 

ghdprentice
6,965 posts
 

@chenry 

 

+1. The i50 is my favorite integrated. Whenever I hear one I instantly close my eyes and fall into the music. The most musical and fulfilling integrated I know of. I am constantly wanting to buy one even though I have no where to use it. 

akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,237 posts
 

How about COPLAND? 

https://copland.dk

https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/copland-cta407
 

 

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