Tube Amplifiers?

JAB, while I agree with your feelings on the KT88, I do prefer the 2A3 over the 300B. I used to think the 300B was as good as it got. 2A3? 3 watts, 5 watts? Well, I took the time to really get into it, and have to say it is better than the 300B to me. Also, surprising bass for as little power as it supposedly puts out. And transformers, NOT tubes are the most important(and expensive) part of a tube amp. Not sure about what an Air Tight goes for used(maybe $2500 - $6000), but they are several levels better than Jolida, Rogue, Golden Tube, Quicksilver, and VTL. And there is no bigger fan of the cheaper brands than I. Just have to give the Devil his due...

Thanks to all for your comments. I listened to an ARC VT-50 and VT-100, and a CJ MV-55 and Premier 8. I liked the tubey sound of the CJ equipment, but felt the ARC had better defined bass. My equipment is BAT VK-30 pre-amp, with, yes, power hungry Aerial 7B speakers.

Sounds like you've overlooked the obvious choice: MR RM200. True balanced design & will work well with your BAT. Plenty of power. Not "tubey" sounding. Great amp!

Hey, Jab. Mesa still is a strong company. They just tired of hi-maintenance audiophile types, like me ;~) They had been designing underground, cult favorite audio gear since the 70's and decided to bring a couple of products to the more conventional market some 20 years later. I have found service, support and attitude to be fantastic. They still do the "tri-tube" upgrades. And, if a tube goes bad within six months, they send a new one free. Good guys with as many or more patents for tube designs than anyone else out there, whose business will still be going strong after many more companies we know are gone. Talk about industrial build quality, the Baron makes an excellent addition as fitness equipment since you can use the "roll cage" as handles for raised push ups. Not joking about this! They may not be designing and selling new products, but Mesa is most certainly going strong. Happy New Year!

had one it was superb and improved greatly once a tier 1 line stage was feeding it. i suggest you contact SF and ask them if the capacitor problems have been solved, mine would let go every year or so...SF took care of the problem immediately when it did occur. good luck and good listening