Tube 2nd system for 5k.

Thanks sandbox

never heard of fi x 2a 3 or hornshoppe. I'll check it out.

I looked up the FI X 2a 3 and since I listen to classic rock bluegrass and some country I think the wattage may be a little low and force me to buy a subwoofer as well. I'd rather not need a subwoofer. Any feedback on this Sandbox?

SACD Player of your choice for $1500 or less.

Rogue Tempest (not Tempest II- which would be fine, but maybe a bit more money) $1500 Used.

JM Reynaud Trente Speakers. $1800 used.

Jsonic, with the right speakers the Fi X rocks, better than my previous Jolida 302b. It is all just a matter of matching the right speakers. I have a pair of Cain Abbys powered by a Fi Y and Super X combo. Switching to the Fi X provided way more bass than a previous Jolida. The Jolida on the other hand was great driving some less efficient speakers much better than the Abbys. For tube amps the speaker-amp interface should not be underestimated.

If you are into rock, why not go for a classic efficient speaker like the Klipsch Cornwall with a Wright 2A3 amp or a Fi X amp. Lots of information on the Klipsch forum.

Anyway, my suggestion would be to listen to some very different tube friendly speaker designs (standard dynamic speakers, single driver speakers, horn speakers), see what you like and find a matching amp (SET or higher power PP).

Good luck and enjoy!

Rene

Rene: I did think the history and design of the FI X looked really cool. I'm not that far from Brooklyn either.