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Beginner looking for guidance into tube sound.

Hello all, I am looking for some input on the best way to add tubes to my current mess. I currently have what I am sure everyone here would consider barely a step up from my parents zenith HI-FI circa 1977. please keep in mind I am lucky if I can afford to look in the window of an actual audio store. 
I currently have a Peachtree nova 300 and a Marantz CD player and a pair of monitor audio silver 500 speakers. A friend gave me a blue sound node 2i also. I have always wanted a tube powered amp. I see these Chinese amps like the Muzishare X7 and Willsenton R8 that have lots of great reviews. Or maybe a tube DAC. Then I see the Black Ice for ss-x. Each having less tubes respectively. Not sure how much that matters but I would think the more tubes the more tube sound one could expect. I would like to be in the $1000. range but would go to $1500 if I had to. My goal is to find the best most cost effective way to enter the tube world.  
johnfritter
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
@johnfritter, sounds like a plan. That's a very nice preamp from what I've read.

rushfan71
291 posts
 
Johnfritter,

Since these entry level Chinese tube amps have peeked your interest, why don't you search out the YouTube channel called Thomas and Stereo.

Thomas has reviewed more of them than any other channel I've seen. It will give you a good up close look, a run down on all specs and features, and he does speak comparatively about them.


madrac
13 posts
 
Take a look at Rogue RP1 preamp or the RP5 - the latter is over your budget but more features (if needed)
for integrated, Rogue Cronus - used , although probably still a bit over budget
mesch
3,476 posts
 
I believe you will be happy with Aric. I own his Special preamp. 
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller
1,399 posts
 
@johnfritter,  

Willsenton, Muzishare, and Doge Audio all make wonderful tube amps.  The Doge stuff is really well made;  the caps and topology are super regardless of where the amp is made.  

I think it's important to recognize that there is a bunch of clone or otherwise inexpensive mid-fi gear coming out of China, but there is great stuff in its own right too. 

The problem is it is not as easy to get these amps with trade wars, increased product demand, and labor shortages. 
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