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Tube Power Amp Recommendations around $2000

I recently ordered a pair of the new Zu Souls and am looking for recommendations for a tube power amplifier around $2000. I'm not wed to either new or used. In my digging on the 'gon in the past week, I have found and am curious about:

-Tube Audio Labs (probably the 300B)
-Jeff Korneff 45 based power amp
-Dynaco ST 70 (there is a local guy that restores them)
-Miniwatt N3 (I'd be curious to know if folks think this one stacks up against the others)
-Synthesis (mostly because there is a local dealer)
-Audion (hard to get a response from their distributor in the US)
-DIY Tube Audio

Any thoughts on these or any other suggestions?

Tim
tjnindc

Showing 5 responses by pubul57

pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I second the Atma-sphere S30 recommendation, Class A, Triode, and no transformers, hard to beat for tube amplification, and the Zus should thrive with OTLs (though it might be a bit above you $$$ used). I also second the Almarros. If 4 watts is enough you should also consider the Music Reference EM7s.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
The RM10 would be a real powerhouse with these speakers, and a great amp it is, but the EM7 may be even more suitable if OP is seeking that "triode" sound and with those sensitive speakers a viable option. Anything my Music Reference is execeptionally good IMHO.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
If the S30 is not enough power, then the RM10 would be my top recommendation $1,950 new, 1-1.2k used _ I have one and it is one of my favourite amps ever, if 35 watts is enough power - with the Zu it should alot of power (they are plenty with my 89db Merlin VSMs in my 12x18 room. The Horn Monos also sounds like a really good option, all QS I Have owned were very good amps.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
The ARC VT130 is a very good amp, but with the Zu I don't know why you would ever get an with that much power or that many tubes - a veyr good amp for tough loads and insensitive speakers - the Zu does not need a "monster" power amp.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Why 150 watts for a 97db speaker? This speaker seems to be able to take advantage of simpler, lower watt circuits, why complicated with high power circuits and additional tubes. Not questioning the VTL150 as an amp (Like the ARC VT130 mentioned before), but as an amp for this speaker.
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