2. amps-preamps
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Tube integrated amp recommendations

Now that I have my second system up and running, I'm thinking of getting an all tube integrated for the system. I've been solid state for most (if not all) my audiophile life. I had a tube-preamp with a class D a few years ago but didn't care for it and I sold it off and continued on with my SS reference system. So now I want to try an all tube integrated with my Tekton Lore Reference speakers (96db efficient) and I'm trying to do some research. I know there're a ton of tube folks on here, so you're recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I would like a headphone jack but not a deal breaker. Will be used for streaming/CD. This is what I'm considering so far (budget $3-5k):

1. Audio Research I50 (new release)

2. Luxman Neoclassico SQ-N150 

3. Raven Blackhawk MKiii

4. Conrad Johnson CAV45

Thanks so much!

 

bluorion
big_greg
6,658 posts
 

Definitely add Line Magnetic to your list.  

If you do any serious headphone listening, you should have a dedicated headphone amp.  Most headphone amps are afterthoughts, similar to most phono stages.  My Modwright LS 100 had a pretty decent headphone amp, but it's not an integrated and is an exception to the rule.

soix
9,656 posts
 

Well, to this point nowhere have you disclosed what sound characteristics you’re looking for, and as a result you’re getting recommendations that span a wide swath of sound from warm to cooler.  That said, if you want just warm of neutral I’d look at Audio Hungary and more neutral the Octave V40SE, both of which have been preferred over Raven by some, but I’d still have Raven HIGH on the radar.  Anyway, what sound characteristics are you looking for???  That’d be most helpful for everyone here, especially YOU. 

gareents
66 posts
 

@bluorion 

Hi, you may want to read my comparison of integrated tube amps, including Raven, here:

 

bluorion OP
479 posts
 

Thanks @soix ​​​​@gareents -- My musical tastes are all over the board--from classic alternative, synth, classic rock, country, house, classical. The sound characteristics I prefer are on the warmer side of neutral. Several others have also mentioned being headphone capable and I actually like that. I have a nice pair of Sennheisers that I really enjoy. Thanks everyone for the great suggestions---still doing my research. 

soix
9,656 posts
 

Given your tastes I think the Audio Hungary should be near the top of your list, and if you’re serious at all about headphones you should spring for a separate headphone amp as those in most integrateds are an afterthought at best. 

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