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Tube Amp recommendation

I know this probably comes up quite a bit and for good reason. I personally live in a medium size city (pop. 350,000) where the only audio stores carry solid state and in most case multi-hundred watt amplifiers where no one can listen to anything other than the typical big names. I've searched as many forums as I can over the past month and can't come to any conclusions.

I've bought and sold a lot of vintage gear, and recently "dispersed" all of it in order to simplify and downsize, sadly this included my vinyl as well. I decided to cash out of my higher end stuff. I'm looking for a tube amp with at least two inputs and volume, so depending on your definitions, an integrated. I don't need more than 20 watts and won't pay extra for a higher watt amp, but I don't want to pay extra just for a low watter either. I'm limited by funds, absolutely no recs more than $1200 USD will be considered, so we're mostly talking about Chinese gear. I'd like used modern gear, while maintaining gear isn't a problem, I'm not particularly keen on owning any more older stuff. My source is Apple lossless Ipod/Music Server, eventually an outboard DAC will be added. Room is 25x25. I listen to a little of everything. I'll be DIY'ing my own full-rangers more than likely based on Fostex, so efficiency will be high, above 95db and I can tune the speakers to the amp.

So what are my options other than Opera/Consonance? I had my eye on a Melody 2A3, but they seem to be fairly uncommon in the U.S.
pellothed1
cheapmike
85 posts
 
I'm happy with my Almarro A205A MK II. I feel good value at price point (less than $1,000) plus $200 modifications.
Low watts just enough to drive my 91db sensitive Zingali Overture 2. Tube rolling not too expensive. Let us know what finally works for you, Mike.
reubent
6,986 posts
 
Check out the Fatman iTube tube integrated amp w/built-in iPod dock.

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=FAIT

Also, the Shanling MC-30 is really neat.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?dgtlplay&1201626861

Not affiliated with either seller in any way and have not heard either. But I do think they are both really cool.....

Enjoy,

TIC
pellothed1 OP
1 posts
 
Hi Guys. I've looked at the Primaluna amps, but they seem to look a lot like the Audioromy brand that pops up on eBay, actually they're nearly identical. I've wondered if they are made by the same manufacturer. In other words, maybe the make so many different types of amps, you pick one they brand it and send it to you. The Audioromy brand can be had pretty cheaply, but I wasn't sure if price came at a cost. There's a Consonance EL-34 for sale (assuming it's still for sale) for $749, but I'm a little shy of it's rate wattage (40) and the El34's, umm, domesticity. Keep the suggestions coming...
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
In that price, I've been looking at the Almarro 318B (Japaneese made SET 18 watt integrated) - you see a good review at sixmoons.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
I've heard the Almarro at a show and it was very nice (albiet with some very good horns). Forgot about the high eff single drivers. That might be a very good combination, although the room is quite large. If you look at my system, you will see that I am fond of the 6CC3 tube. Its a shame that Atma-sphere stopped production of their amp with that tube.
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