Picking a Tube integrated amp


Hey all. Trying to figure out my amp situation and am looking at a few integrated to upgrade to. 

I currently have a McIntosh integrated and want to move to tubes. I have the vivid v1.5speakers and a Clearaudio Concept. Looking at the following:

—Primaluna Dialogue premium or HP.
—Audio Research VSi60
—Octave v40SE

Question...does the AR still hold up? It’s likely it will be a used model, but curious if it’s still competing with the others I listed. Any others to consider?  

Thanks!


 
128x128rubytuesday
Understood..... I thought the same thing before I bought my cj Classic preamp.   That is a great integrated amp for the money.  
I have a Raven Reflection MK2 Integrated tube amp that powers Sonus Faber Amati Tradition Homage speakers.  Outstanding sound, beautiful pieces to display.  You should look up Raven Audio and call Dave the owner.  You did not indicate what your budget level was.  Raven have a couple of integrated options.  He also uses a lot of rare tubes in his amps.  Plenty of power! 
Be careful if you buy a used VTL.....  they don't treat you like a "real" customer if you need support.
"Kalali:

Prima Luna is made by Cayin in China (Cayin goes by Spark in China).

DeKay"

Cayin is owned entirely by the Chinese government so all profits will go to them.  Prima Luna is only made in factories owned by the Chinese government in partnership with Prima Luna. 

If this kind of thing bothers you, then it is something to consider.  If not, just a "fun fact".
You should also consider (as mentioned above) Cayin and Line Magnetic. Both are Chinese brands, Cayin being a government owned company and LM a private one. 
Both Cayin and LM are the makers of several respected western brands, like Primaluna and others. 
I own one amplifier from Cayin (MT45 MkII - push-pull) and one from Line Magnetic (LM219ia - SET). Both are superb in terms of sound, design and built quality. And much cheaper than the equivalent western brands. 
Up to you. Go have a listen if you can.