2. amps-preamps
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Luxman - Shindo - Mcintosh ?

I am starting my research on a new (used) tube amplifier, and my budget is around $2.5K to $3.5K. I have a PS Audio BHK Pre, a pair of Altec Lansing Valencias (16 ohm), a Linn LP 12 turntable with Pass Labs XP15 Phono Stage which would make up the rest of the system. Kind of a new / vintage hybrid set up. I have a bunch of other gear, and will need to sell some off for this purchase.

Tube Amps that initially jump out at me are...
Mcintosh MC240 (serviced)
Luxman MQ 3600
Shindo Montille EL84
Any thoughts or recommendations would be welcome
Mark


















128x128marktheshark
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

Mark,

As tswista says the Coincident Frankenstein is a superb sounding SET amplifier that would IMO work well with your 97 db sensitivity 16 ohm (very easy load speakers). . If a used Frankenstein is not available in your price range consider the Coincident Dynamo latest version the MK III. Ii is  a singled ended class A circuit so a different approach compared to the push pull amps suggested above. It is available as an el 34 or as a 300b based SEP 8 watt amplifier.


.I believe this type of
pure class A single ended amp would mate wonderfully with your Altec speakers. Good luck to you. Two different pathways , no NFB class A or + NFB class AB circuit. Either can be very good but different.

Charles

jsqt's avatar
jsqt
117 posts
 
I have 2 of the Luxman MQ88uSEs (basically the same as that listing from US Audio Mart). I'm running them in mono configuration from a Backert Labs Rhumba Extreme preamp. The sound is incredible, and I'd recommend you jump on that listing if you have the budget. The uC version has 16 ohm speaker taps. There is a transparency and shimmer to the Luxman sound that is magical - but with the KT88 power tubes there is plenty of tight, dynamic bass as well. I don't know much about the other amps you listed but I cannot imagine anyone in the market for a tube power amplifier would be disappointed with the MQ-88uC. 
markusthenaimnut's avatar
markusthenaimnut
375 posts
 
Whoops. My bad.

Sorry, I was under the mistaken impression that you were shopping for a preamp.

Never mind. However, if you're considering a tube power amp you might find it enjoyable and educational to read Roger Sanders' "transistors vs. tubes" white paper. IMHO very helpful.
jperry
2,458 posts
 
The Luxman would be a good choice for the Altecs, the Shindo not a great match up. I heard this combination at a friends and other amps worked better with the Altecs
br3098
997 posts
 
...do you think the MC225 would be the best value ?
Best value?  Dunno.  They go for about the same as the MC240.  But the amp only has 2 gain stages (as opposed to 3 on the MC240) and the 7591A tubes make for a very sweet sound.  I've owned lots of tube amps but this one is my all round favorite.

All the amps you listed and are being recommended are wonderful.  I think the MC225 is special but you really need to hear a few so that you can judge for yourself.  If you but a good amp at a fair price you will always be able to sell it for at (or near) what you paid.


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