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Tube Integrated With Clarity

I’ve recently decided that I prefer integrated amps over seperates and I’m looking for another tube Integrated for my second system.  Not to long ago I purchased a demo Lab12 Integre4 and it really changed the way I looked at integrated amps. I’d be more than happy owning a second Lab12 but that’s just too boring.

I’m looking for a very fast and clear sound, yet retain the smoothness and liquidity of tubes. Not interested in amps with slow bass or overly smooth or rolled off treble.  I used to think extended treble and resolution resulted in brightness. I’ve learned over time that doesn’t have to be the case. I really think you can get a good dose of both without crazy money if you know what to look for.  It’s for a very small room so I’m open to anything from around 10watts plus. Current speakers are Totem Arro but looking to find a pair of Reference 3As or Fritz in the not too distant future.  

Budget is tops 4K but I’d prefer to spend less. So far I’m really interested in Linear Tube Audio as well as Octave. If I go with LTA I may buy a MZ2 and one of their power amps just because it seems cheaper.  With Octave I’m looking at V40 SE or V70SE. Hopefully with either I can find one that comes with their Black Box.  I’m guessing I may get some Audio Research suggestions, but I feel as great as they sound, value for your dollar is not the best. Also, I feel some of these other companies put more emphasis on developing integrated amps.  
 

As far as aesthetics I’m into a clean modern look. I think both Octave and LTA represent my preferences well. Anyways, I’m sure there’s plenty I’m missing and looking forward to some suggestions. 

 

brylandgoodman
macg19
912 posts
 

Not sure what speakers you will be driving but if relatively efficient, look at the Raven Audio Black Hawk or Osprey.

I owned the Osprey  for over a year - really nice sounding integrated with great low end, mids and clear and detailed highs. I only sold it because I wanted more power for my Harbeth's and the Raven Reflection was more than I wanted to spend even with 100% trade-in value on the Osprey. 

They sell direct and offer a 45 day in home trial with a reasonable restocking fee so pretty low risk IMO. Excellent customer service and advice.

eugene81
270 posts
 

No experience with Octave, but LTA sounds like a good choice.  It is definitely a tube design with clarity.  I had the MZ2 and Z10, which is essentially an MZ3 in a traditional package.  I would highly recommend the Z10/MZ3 over the MZ2, especially if you use headphones.

bgross's avatar
bgross
389 posts
 

I have listened extensively to both the Octave V40SE and the V70 Class A the V40 is an excellent amp especially with the Black Box. It actually approaches the performance of the V70SE without (too close to call) but the V70 Class A is spectacular as a $10K amp should be. I'm a fan of Octave Audio and believe they make exceptional compnanats. Just my opinion.  

brylandgoodman OP
91 posts
 

I’m digging all the suggestions, much appreciated. 
 

I’m going to have to look into Audio Hungary as well as Ayon more.  Both seem to potentially have what I’m after.  Some of the brands suggested I have owned ,McIntosh, others I’m just not drawn to. Sometimes aesthetics, sometimes I’m not even sure what it is, but they don’t feel like my style I guess. I hope that doesn’t come across as shallow. I’m just saying I find it similar to people where you are attracted to some and not to others. Far as attracted, I don’t simply mean looks but everything including the companies background/history. 
 

Anyways, I’m glad I have a little while to figure it out. The room this stereo is in doesn’t see much use till the winter months. I figure I’ll start selling some other gear soon and look to purchase in a month or too, depending.  
 

Again, thanks for all the feedback. Looking forward to more. 

avanti1960
1,476 posts
 

I had a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II and with upgraded NOS small tubes it sounded incredible, smooth, clear, atmospheric sound stage and plenty of power.  

The kicker for me happened when I traded it in.  The dealer had been playing a set of HE speakers with a highly regarded Rega Elicit R integrated amp.  The Rega based system sounded smooth and pleasant.  

But when he tested my Cronus Magnum II in the system (stock tubes) it was a wow moment.  The thickness we didn't know was there with the solid state amp just vanished and a clear, uncongested airy transparency opened a window to the music with the midrange at its core, completely dimensional and much more musically real.  

 

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