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300b INTEGRATED AMP Suggestions

This will be my first post here but I have enjoyed advice from this site for quite some time.  

After living for many years with the Rogue Cronus Magnum I am interested in downsizing a bit to a smaller, more finessed system built around a 300B integrated amp.  I am intrigued by what I have read about SET amps and given my small room and musical preferences I think this could be a fun switch.  I have been looking at the Cary CAD-300sei amp and am leaning that direction but wanted to put this out there to see what comes back before I jump.  (I like the reviews and the positivity around Line Magnetic as well, however I'd like to stay away from the 845 tubes for heat reasons)  My musical preference is generally around folk, singer/songwriter, jazz etc but not limited to.  My budget is around 5k new or used.

I know speakers are a huge part of this equation as well.  I currently have some KEF r5 speakers that I would likely be looking to replace with something from Zu's line depending on where I end up with an amp decision. 

I'd love to get any recommendations.
dholmes189
dholmes189 OP
2 posts
 
Thank you all for the input and assistance.  I have made the decision to go with Aric Audio to build one of his beautiful Super 300b SETs for me.  (Thanks @charles1dad for the recommendation)   

I've gone back and forth on some of the other brands and makers you all have suggested, but in the end, I am very much drawn to the bespoke build from an artist and craftsman.  

I'll have a couple weeks/months to wait before it arrives but I'll be sure to keep you all posted how it comes out.  

Again, thanks to everyone!
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
@dholmes189, 
Congratulations!!! That's an excellent decision and Aric will  build you a superb sounding 300b SET amplifier. He'll definitely guide you right in regard to output transformers and high quality part options.
Charles 
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,949 posts
 
Be sure to post follow up
jond's avatar
jond
5,869 posts
 
@dholmes189 Awesome news congratulations and good luck with the anticipation! And if you can splash out on the best output transformers Aric offers, OPTs really make or break a SET amp. And yes follow up and we will of course need pics!
pauly
1,012 posts
 
I have made the decision to go with Aric Audio to build one of his beautiful Super 300b SETs for me.


Great choice. Be careful, many folks will be coveting your amplifiers.
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