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Beginners Tube Amp Recommendations

I'm seduced by the liquid sounds of tube amps but need some good recommendations on where to start. I'm looking for an entry level tube/hybrid amp around the $500-$700 new or used. My speakers are Totem's rated at 80watt & 4ohms. I've checked out Jolida 102, AMC 2030...anything else? I don't wanna spend a bundle just to found out that tubes are high maintenance and then want to go back to SS amps.
bonger
christopher
2 posts
 
Have you tried the Jolida Hybrid integrated amps? I hear that they are very good and you can get one new for $300 to $500 dollars.

The JD102 Jolida Tube amp is also a great starting point. I am looking for a used one now!
s7horton
1,077 posts
 
Anthem INT 2 can be had in your price range. Tubed pre section with solid state power section. 90 watts per channel should do you just nicely. Just be aware that the volume pot is not the greatest...
celtic66
1,658 posts
 
My wife's system has the Luxman 491 integrated hybrid which is not the ultimate in definition, but sounds very nice and holds its own with power solidly at 90wpc. We changed the stock tubes to RCAs and hardwired an LAT International PC and it sounds real nice.

Hawthorne Stereo in Seattle has a nice demo for $499 which may be negotiable. Good luck.
eldulcesol
197 posts
 
Check out Audio Aero Prima integrated amps. They are a hybrid design with a single tube preamp and solid state out. Very nice sounding amp. They do come up occasionaly (preowned) with prices well in your range. Had mine for over a year with no complaints. Good Luck.
gthirteen
355 posts
 
go with the jolida.
with an aftermarket power cord, and some better tubes, they perform well above their range.
Trelja is a big advocate of both Jolida and Totems, so he could probably shed some light on your predicament.

He will probably see this thread at some point today...

GOOD LUCK!
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