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SET amps (almarro vs decware)

I'm looking to buy a SET amp under 1500  with at least 4 watts.

The two I'm looking at are
Almarro a318b
Decware zen triode integrated

Almarro is super tough to find used right now, and prices seem to have gone way up. I've read posts a few years back about people picking these up used for $1200. Maybe the a205a?

Decware is attractive to me because of the lifetime warranty. If the almarro broke, I'd have no idea what to do.

I am am looking for some opinions between these two amps, and maybe the a205a as well.

Ease of ownership is a factor too. I want an amp that I can keep for many many years with little hassle. 

Thanks guys
asianatorizzle

Showing 2 responses by mikirob

mikirob
955 posts
 
Hi Charles,
You are absolutely right. The new transformers and power supply makes this 8 watt hard to beat at many times its cost. It's also driving my brother's Harbeth SHL5s with aplomb; quite remarkable. Best, Rob

mikirob
955 posts
 
I really like the Almarro (I owned one), but a better sounding more powerful amp is the Coincident Dynamo SE or the Coincident Dynamo SE Mark II, $1,200 to 1,500, which I own and am extremely happy with.  This amp has 2 EL34 power tubes, a 5ar4 Rectifier, and 2 6SL7. Really punches way above the Almarro. I actually like it better with my DeVore 0/96 better than my former Primaluna Dialogue One, maybe even my Cary V12. Best, Rob
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