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Are Quicksilver power tube amps in the same league as VAC, VTL, BAT, ARC, ...?

I see that VAC, VTL, BAT, ACR power tube amps are almost twice or more expensive than Quicksilver power tube amps at the same power ratings.
Are Quicksilver power amps as good as twice or more expensive brands?
I am considering power tube amps with 80, 100, or 120Watts power ratings and I just wonder.
I don't have much budget (under 5K) and my choice is either new QS or those other brands used.
If not QS, which brands are best bang for the buck for power tube amps?
I need to drive 87dB speaker, so the power has to be at least 80Watts.
Thanks for your input.
128x128ihcho
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,451 posts
 
I recently bought the Quicksilver Headphone amp.  It is literally built better than most power amps .   It is a tank,  like a 2/3 size Mid Mono.

Its awesome !!!  All Quicksilver gear is point to point wired, heirloom stuff that will outlast the owner.   Dont let the plain looks fool you, it is high quality 
middlemass
880 posts
 
"My QS Mini-monos are my favorite amps and I've owned quite a few different amps. Not much to look at but they sound sweet. ."

Function over Form: my favorite type of gear. And the builder has passed the savings to us. Thank You Mike Sanders!
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,549 posts
 
Yup, quality amps!

  They would not be in business long if they sold subpar and halfa$$ed components!

 
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,451 posts
 
I know, I feel like I'm betraying Mike by not buying another Quicksilver amp....

I'll alway be a QS fan.... not selling the headphone amp either.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,451 posts
 
I'm fine with amps that are total sleepers....there is nothing on those Mid Monos that doesn't need to be there.....ie, faceplate 

I'm listening to them as I type....huge wall of sound with my Forte IV
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