The Little Tube Amp That Could?


Greetings all. I am looking for some recommendations for a moderately-priced stereo tube amp. I would like to have at least 20-30 solid WPC, but don't really need much more than that. The amp is going in between a Cary SLP50A, Ruark Templars (original model, about 87db sensitive with tube-friendly impedence), with a Sony 333 as the front end (also a NAD 533/Black Cube analog rig, too).

Is it possible to find an amp like this (used gear preferred) in the 6-800 range? I don't need fancy, just good dimensional tube sound with some "balls".

I was thinking about a Cary SLA 70 or something like that, and would appreciate quality feedback on this or similar amps. Thanks for your time.

Alan
aldenruss
There are lots of choices in the "used" price range of $600--$800. I am going to recommend a pair of the Quicksilver mini-monos. They appear on audiogon from time to time in that price range. I use a pair myself and they are very very good.
ARC VT-60 for sale on Audiogon -- I have previously owned a VT-60 and they are very nice for the $$. If you could go up to $1700, there are some VT-100 (which I own now) which is much better.
You might consider a Sonic Frontiers SFS-40. It can be tubed with el34, kt88, kt90, 6550 outputs, as well as several input and driver stage tube options. Wattage would vary form 40-55 wpc depending on tube complement. If you are interested in tube rolling and trying different combo's, this is the amp for you. If you are interested in a used one, email me. Good luck. Erik