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Tube amp suggestions under $3k used

Looking for some tube amp recommendations. I want to compare my Cayin 88 with a more expensive unit. There aren't many dealers around here (and nobody seems to stock tube amps better than Jolida) so my plan for comparison was to purchased used here on A-gon and sell it if it doesn't work. Therefore, I would like to stick to an amp I can re-sell easily if it doesn't work out, one that is fairly common and well respected. Thinking McIntosh, ARC, Cary, VAC, stuff like that. I probably need around 40-50 watts, wouldn't mind more though. The Cayin sounds like it has enough juice. Preamp is Modwright Signature 9.0, speakers are Von Schweikert VR-4 Jr's, which are fairly neutral, easy to drive, and easy to listen to.

Price range is around $3k. I like vocals, jazz, electronic ambient, indie rock.
chiho
7 responses Add your response
chiho OP
26 posts
 
Well, it isn't that I don't like the amp, but would like perhaps a bit more transparency, bit deeper soundstage, more of an in-the-room feel, deeper, tighter bass, better frequency extension, and a bit more power for complex passages would be nice. I figure that a better amp could do all of these just as well: I am sure that the Cayin, as nice as it is, probably isn't as good as some of the ones listed above. But, not really having had such an amp in my system, I can't say for sure. I am not experienced enough to say what sound I am shooting for; I just want it to sound like a live show, as difficult as that is.

Stock KT88's and upgraded Electro-harmonix rectifier tubes are what I am using now. Do you feel that tubes could get me part way there?
newbee
4,767 posts
 
Why don't you take a few moments to tell us how your set up with the Cayin sounds now and what improvements you would like to see by introducing a different amp. Perhaps all you really need is not so much a different amp but different tubes to accomplish what you are after. Guys with SS amps buy different amps - guys with tubed amps buy tubes! :-)
blindjim
3,092 posts
 

Dodd 120wpc MK II mono blocks. Any music, anytime. Find some with the cap upgrades and your rig will definitely get a big shot in the arm. between $2K & $3K when available, and depending on the tube compliment.

Great amps. Sweet! Flexible and cheap to retube.

Still more power desired? Try a Butler TDB2250, $3K brand new.
bmotorcycle
68 posts
 
Most of the Cary line can be bought used for under that $3000.00 figure you mention. Cary seems to constantly make revesions on their existing models so get the latest revision that the budget allows.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Try the Cayin 100. I have the 100 and 88. The extra power in the 100 may be all you need. Cayin is easy to buy and easy to sell. I've listened to the Mac, Bat and VAC, but not in my rig. It is hard to tell 'better' unless you put each amp in your rig. So, hold on to the 88, it maybe enough to provide the best sound, in your rig.
darkmoebius
900 posts
 
Depends on your sonic preferences...

Ultimate neutrality - Atma Sphere M60 Mk2.2

"Meaty Beaty Big and Bouncy" - BAT VK55SE or, for a bit more VK 60/120 monoblocks

Definitely worth considering - Canary Audio Ca-160 Monoblock

Wanna rock? Manley Snapper monos or Vtl ST-150. Another ST-150
oregon
820 posts
 
I highly recommend the VAC 80/80. Excellent value for the money. Expect to pay less than $2k used. As always, look for at least 8/10.
Good luck.
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