Recent Tube convert myself. Well not a full convert, I still have and love my Simaudio W3. Anyway I’ve always been curious about the tube sound so I picked up a Willsenton R8 with KT88 tubes and it’s been simply incredible. I’m a huge skeptic, I figured it would sound pretty good but never thought 25 watts (in triode) would be enough. I paired it with my Dynaudio Contour 1.1s and the synergy is terrific. And they are not sensitive speakers (86db). The resale prices are so good on the R8 I figured I could try it out and sell it for near purchase price, but I don’t think I’ll ever sell this amp. I can’t wait to try tube rolling.
One caveat though, while I fully recommend the R8, its the only tube amp I’ve owned and the only other tube amp I’ve heard was a Prima Luna HP so I have very limited experience with tubes. They might all sound amazing. 2 for 2 at least in my experience. My next piece of gear will probably be a tube pre for the W3.
One caveat though, while I fully recommend the R8, its the only tube amp I’ve owned and the only other tube amp I’ve heard was a Prima Luna HP so I have very limited experience with tubes. They might all sound amazing. 2 for 2 at least in my experience. My next piece of gear will probably be a tube pre for the W3.