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The Little Tube Amp That Could?

Greetings all. I am looking for some recommendations for a moderately-priced stereo tube amp. I would like to have at least 20-30 solid WPC, but don't really need much more than that. The amp is going in between a Cary SLP50A, Ruark Templars (original model, about 87db sensitive with tube-friendly impedence), with a Sony 333 as the front end (also a NAD 533/Black Cube analog rig, too).

Is it possible to find an amp like this (used gear preferred) in the 6-800 range? I don't need fancy, just good dimensional tube sound with some "balls".

I was thinking about a Cary SLA 70 or something like that, and would appreciate quality feedback on this or similar amps. Thanks for your time.

Alan
aldenruss
prfont
89 posts
 
You may find a Conrad Johnson MV 50 or MV 52. These are 45 watts per channel and have superb build quailty.I use an MV 52 with Meadowlark Kestral Hotrod's with are easy to drive and the sound is wonderful. You may not be on the cutting edge with these but you'll have a wonderful sounding amp and CJ is great to deal with. The CJ website has info/photos on their older models.
joe_b
421 posts
 
Quicksilver makes some nice low powered tube amps that are available used. If you see a Berning EA-230, it may be worth investigating. Also, if you do not want to spend a lot of money, you could get an AMC amp. They are available on Ebay at closeout prices.
sknnyc
51 posts
 
Keep your eye out for a used Quicksilver 8417. They are extremely transparent, very tube like and I've heard them drive Maggies to decent levels. Typical prices are well within your range (althought the 8417 tubes are getting expensive).
aldenruss OP
35 posts
 
I appreciate the feedback folks, thanks very much. About the Music Reference, are these ever on the Audiogon? I've been hanging around here for a year and a half or so, don't remember seeing too many of these. I'd love to hear from any Cary SLA 70 owners out there, too.

Alan
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