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Help with tube amps

I have recently become quite interested in puying a tube amp. I have no knowledge about tube amps but have been told of the magical sound a tube amp will make. I am looking to be able to put this tube amp into my system once in a while in order to experience this magic with my husband through a night of romantic acoustics every once in a while. Although my budget may seem low ($1000), I am hoping that there are some amps out there that will suit my needs. Amps I have looked at so far: Houston GSP-02, Sonic Frontiers SFS-80, and Decware Zen triode. Looking for any other suggestions and/or advice.
emily
ctgrubbs
11 posts
 
If you are really looking for that romantic glow I can highly recommend conrad-johnson. Their older MV-75 amp would have plenty of drive for your speakers, they are still serviced by c-j, and can be had for about $700. You might also find one of their newer MV-45 or 50 amps for about $1k.
The used Quicksilver mono amps are also and excellent. And if you want to buy new, check out Antique Sound Labs (www.divertech.com) and Audio Electronic Supply (www.audioelectronicsupply.com) Both companies make 25-30 watt amps for under $1k.
musikdok
120 posts
 
I agree with David - The C.J. MV-55 would be a good choice, with some 'steam' to drive your speakers to reasonable levels. Not far from your budget - there are two on the site at present. Question is: Will you be able to resist getting a tube pre? Hmmmmm.......Cheers, -John
hedgehog's avatar
hedgehog
183 posts
 
You might want to take a look at the VTL ST-85...it can be had for ~$950 used. It has a nice look to it...you can see the tubes aglow through the from faceplate. It is also nice sounding piece...not quite as "romantic" sounding as the C-J stuff, but will give you that "tube magic".
vayasteve
171 posts
 
I would go for,the C.J. MV-75 plenty of bang for the buck.
randalleron
63 posts
 
another cj vote. i'm a former mv55 owner (recently upgraded to cj monos) and would highly reccomend the mv55, as well as the older 75 (i've listened to, but not lived with, one). the cj sound is wonderfully warm, musical and engaging. since in integrated a tube amp into my system, a cj tube amp, my acoustic & femal vocal collection has grown exponentially. cj equpiment really brings out the best in acoustic and femal vocals, as well as jazz. good luck.
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