2. amps-preamps
  3. 158865-9347

Separates to tube integrated

I have been on an audio hiatus for a few years, like 10+. I am seriously considering selling my separate amp and pre-amp for a tube integrated. I want to keep it simple and classic. I currently have a Classe CA-151 amp and Classe SSP-25 preamp (used to have a surround system which is why I have the SSP25). I don't do video anymore and no vinyl so a phono stage is not part of the decision. In my past systems I have owned some tubed Pre-amps from Conrad Johnson, Audible Illusions. I have always enjoyed the sound of tubes but never owned a tube amp. These days I want to keep it simple and straight forward, pure 2 channel audio, mostly CD's and a streamer of some sort in the near future. I am currently running the B&W CDM9NT speakers. Was looking at a tube integrated like either the Primaluna EVO 300 or Rogue Cronus Magnum. Again, no phono stage needed just an audio source or 2. Based on a lot of the customer reviews I have read I am leaning on the EVO 300. Do I stand to lose any by going to an integrated? I am guessing from what I have read I will actually be gaining. I am trying to find one in my area to listen to but with this whole virus thing its tough and nobody has one anywhere in my region. Thoughts?
jmphotography

Showing 1 response by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,881 posts
 
I own, so can highly recommend Cayin Equipment quality and tube sound. Designed in Germany, made in China, a brick s...house. I took the bottom off when I got it, very impressive inside.

I bought a used A88T, It lets you run 6550’s or KT88’s, which is nice, it came with 6550’s, very nice, tried and prefer KT88’s, just slightly different. Optional Pre-Amp Pass Thru for future changes to your system

this review helped me decide.

https://6moons.com/audioreviews/cayin/a88t.html

VAS, USA Distributor, is highly respected.

Consider remote control features when you look (they are not always mentioned, you may need to dig for answers).

A88T has a remote, input switching (who cares?), volume remote which I must have, and remote triode/ultra linear switch, easy to hear instant difference while listening (I and everyone of my friends definitely prefer ultra-linear).

No remote balance, which is a must for me to tweak the imaging a bit on ’a bit off’ tracks. I get that via Chase RLC-1

Also, any modern tube amp, check for external bias control, and bias meters, I wish I had that. My early version lacks that, but it had 16 ohm speaker taps which I need.
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