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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
marktheshark's avatar
marktheshark OP
55 posts
 
Just wanted to thank you guys for your advice. I ended up purchasing the Luxman MQ-88uC and it’s awesome. been switching back and forth between the Altec lansing Velecias and a pair of Spatial Audio M3s. I’m still swapping other gear around, but the Luxman tube amp is killer.
jamesfokes's avatar
jamesfokes
30 posts
 
https://parttimeaudiophile.com/2018/03/30/review-mcintosh-ma252-tube-solid-state-integrated-amplifie...
It is a hybrid.


isslewis
22 posts
 
I I have done some upgrades to the McIntosh MA252. Added Telefunken 12ax7’s and 12at7’s, they dropped the noise level down a bit. Then I added Synergistic Orange Fuse to the fuse holder. The pop’s now! 
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
@marktheshark 
So how's that Luxman working out with the Spatials? Been eyeballing it as a possible combo with the X3. Thanks.
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 
If you want some of the best tube amps anywhere,
bob carver new amps, 
 maybe a bit over budget, but are amazing and are lifer amps.
  300+ WPC from tubes is unheard of these days for the price point!

 Get the Raven 350’s n don’t look back. 
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