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300b INTEGRATED AMP Suggestions

This will be my first post here but I have enjoyed advice from this site for quite some time.  

After living for many years with the Rogue Cronus Magnum I am interested in downsizing a bit to a smaller, more finessed system built around a 300B integrated amp.  I am intrigued by what I have read about SET amps and given my small room and musical preferences I think this could be a fun switch.  I have been looking at the Cary CAD-300sei amp and am leaning that direction but wanted to put this out there to see what comes back before I jump.  (I like the reviews and the positivity around Line Magnetic as well, however I'd like to stay away from the 845 tubes for heat reasons)  My musical preference is generally around folk, singer/songwriter, jazz etc but not limited to.  My budget is around 5k new or used.

I know speakers are a huge part of this equation as well.  I currently have some KEF r5 speakers that I would likely be looking to replace with something from Zu's line depending on where I end up with an amp decision. 

I'd love to get any recommendations.
dholmes189
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Take your time and look around. If you want a 300B SET, don’t compromise. There is no amplification device that equals a SET amplifier. 300B tubes are expensive but they are very long lasting and sound great. 

I’m unfamiliar with the Zu line of speakers. Depending on how efficient they are, you could also consider 2A3 or even 45 SET. Long story short, you have many options. SET aren’t as numerous though and there are few on the used market at any particular time. Be patient and keep your eye on all the online markets.
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,479 posts
 
I originally thought two Decware Zen mono.  Thought about Whammerdyne 2a3 amps , but I didn’t think 2 watts would be enough for a 99dB sens speaker.  
My last few amps were 40  watts and could drive several 88-89 dB sens speaker to fairly loud levels so 8 watts should be plenty 
gsm18439
895 posts
 
Someone whose opinion I totally respect likes Tube Fantasy amplifiers from China. There is a pair of PSET300b for sale on Audiogon. 
dholmes189 OP
2 posts
 
Thank you all for the input and assistance.  I have made the decision to go with Aric Audio to build one of his beautiful Super 300b SETs for me.  (Thanks @charles1dad for the recommendation)   

I've gone back and forth on some of the other brands and makers you all have suggested, but in the end, I am very much drawn to the bespoke build from an artist and craftsman.  

I'll have a couple weeks/months to wait before it arrives but I'll be sure to keep you all posted how it comes out.  

Again, thanks to everyone!
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
@dholmes189, 
Congratulations!!! That's an excellent decision and Aric will  build you a superb sounding 300b SET amplifier. He'll definitely guide you right in regard to output transformers and high quality part options.
Charles 
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