Tube integrated amp recommendations
Now that I have my second system up and running, I'm thinking of getting an all tube integrated for the system. I've been solid state for most (if not all) my audiophile life. I had a tube-preamp with a class D a few years ago but didn't care for it and I sold it off and continued on with my SS reference system. So now I want to try an all tube integrated with my Tekton Lore Reference speakers (96db efficient) and I'm trying to do some research. I know there're a ton of tube folks on here, so you're recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I would like a headphone jack but not a deal breaker. Will be used for streaming/CD. This is what I'm considering so far (budget $3-5k):
1. Audio Research I50 (new release)
2. Luxman Neoclassico SQ-N150
3. Raven Blackhawk MKiii
4. Conrad Johnson CAV45
Thanks so much!
@millercarbon you right the Blackhawk would only prime the pump. However you love yours and that is great, as I have seen in the millercarbon archives you were thinking about the Reflection by Raven? Thinking you needed it for those Tekton monoliths (size) you have.
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@secretguy Thanks for the reminder about Rogue CM. |
In your budget the Audio Hungary Qualiton A20i I have the X200 and have the A20i also. I have also owned the Raven Balckhawk Mk 3.1 and will say the A20i is much more detailed and dynamic. Give it a look. @arafiq will atest to the AH products being a better choice than all on your list.
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I still enjoy my PrimaLuna Prologue One, bought oh-so-many years ago. An occasional spritz of Deoxit on the pots. A change of output tubes every few years. Beautiful instrumental timbres. More than enough 3-D and punch to keep this musician happy. Right now I'm enjoying the heck out of a stream of Scheherezade from Qobuz via my embarrasingly-what-happened-to-the-company Mytek Brooklyn Bridge. |
