2. amps-preamps
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What is the best integrated tube amp under $3k ?

I have recently been bitten by the tube bug. For the most part, I really love it. My short experience with tubes is turning out to be filled with much analyzing and upgrading of tubes, cables and different dacs. I am also discovering the strengths and weaknesses of some of the components that I am using.
I am starting to look at replacing my Jadis Orchestra Reference and would like to hear from what other folks are using as their integrated tube amps. My plan would be to try to spend about $3000 for a good preowned amp.
I'd especially like to hear from anyone that has owned a JOR and has found something that they are satisfied with.
I'd like find something that will be able to drive Dali Helicon 800 which are about 90.5 db sensitive.
I have heard of SET tube amps that people seem very excited about. I would like to hear some objective observations about these systems as well.
Thanks in advance.
128x128mattzack2
saki70
907 posts
 
Sbank ;

Do you , or anyone else , know of an internet site where I can gain some info on the Air Tight products ?
I tried clicking on the 'Air Tight' link in the Industry Directory here and it only lists the distributor 'Axiss' . Their website does not list much of anything about the product .

I would like to know the power output , biasing procedures , tubes used and type of tubes that can be rolled in for the ATM-1 and ATM-1S .

Thank You .
stevehifi
2 posts
 
The Sam's Audio Labs Sam Kim Heathkit 151 in full triode at 7 watts is just magical. HE totaly designs his own circuitry and is a genius on amplifiers, preamp, phono preamps, and tuners. I have heard people saying that it is the best they ever heard for under $3000.00
you can check him out at www.samsaudiolabs.com

Its worth looking into
nita
9 posts
 
Please look at the Eastern Electric M520 with the optional capacitor upgrades. They offer either Mundorf silver in oil or Teflon in oil package. Together with some reasonable tube rolling, this upgrade will elevate performance of this amplifier to match anything in its price range. Build quality is very good with a nice remote control. Contact Eastern Electric for other mods. Thanks, Nita
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
Saki,

The Axiss website is the only one I know of.

From memory, ATM1 output tubes are 4 EL34s, a pair of input tubes, which I don't recall, and a 5AR4 rectifier, which isn't worth rolling. Power is around 35w/ch. Biasing is standard old school, drop a wire into a hole to read your meter, and adjust a small screw for each output tube. It wasn't tough, as I recall. No familiarity which the S model. Cheers,

Spencer
sean34
95 posts
 
Stevehifi, you should let everyone know that you are a representative for Sam's Audio Labs. FWIW I have heard that the Heathkit 151 from Sam's is killer.
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