2. amps-preamps
  3. 126339-21902

Need amp suggestions for Hedlund Horns....

A few months ago, I heard a Cary 300b amp hooked up to some small monitors and was blown away... so the itch to upgrade started.

I just bought used a pair of Hedlund horns... came with it (free) was a diy homemade tube amp that does not sound adequate (based on what I heard these horns can do).

I’m in the market for a used amp that would be the ideal match for these Hedlunds. From what I read, I have several options such as 300b, 2A3, etc. but what would you recommend?  I've never had a low-power SET amp before.  

My room is 25’x 30’ with vaulted ceilings (large enough), wood floors, fairly open. I listen to everything from classic jazz, horns, classical, vocals, and the occasional rock. I would love to have some volume to feel the energy and texture of the song.


128x128ramoneo14
bradf's avatar
bradf
324 posts
 
Hi, ramoneo14
Your original question stated that you wanted suggestions for a good amp. Is this the case, and if so what pre-amp do you have or plan to get, or are you looking for an integrated amp?
Also did you come too realize that $1000.00 may not be able to obtain you the amp/preamp/integrated your seeking and you have since increased your budget to $2K.
Knowing the above would help in making more accurate suggestions with regard to possible candidates.
Another suggestion would be to research audio clubs/organizations in your area; there may be members willing to share or demonstrate there amps/integrated for you, there by taking some of the guess work out if for you.


jond's avatar
jond
5,744 posts
 
@gwalt Min at Tube Audio Labs is building Korneff45 clones not sure who else is building them.
http://www.tubeaudiolab.com/id254.html
gwalt
162 posts
 

Jond:

That is it then. Thanks Jond. My memory sucks but I did have a friend who had both a Korneff 45 built by Jeff and a Min one and liked them both. He bought the Min one after selling the Korneff and wanted another Korneff and Jeff had stopped making them.

gwalt

ramoneo14's avatar
ramoneo14 OP
17 posts
 
@charles1dad , @gwalt , @powder1 : I am certainly open to the 45 tube variety- low power, reputable sound quality, availability, and if prices are low that is the ticket.

@bradf : I now realize that $1K is a bit low to spend on a quality integrated so I am open to go $2K if the value is there.  I have a VTL Dual Mono tube preamp (may not be a good match, not sure).  I'd rather go integrated for matching and simplicity. 

@jond There is a Tube Audio Labs 300b amp on Audiogon right now for $1900. Is that a good unit? If so, how good and would you advise that option over the 45 version?  Also there is another Tube Audio Labs 2A3 amp for a good price.  Your opinions?  
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,249 posts
 
Jond,
This looks like a very good option.  I looked at their parts selection list on that site and there are some really good choices offered. You are given an opportunity to upgrade/customize the amplifier to a significant degree if desired. Really nice transformers are available. 
Charles, 
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