China built tube amps
Well I had an interesting conversation today. I contacted a large dealer and let him know I would like to buy a certain integrated tube amplifier that is made in China. I was told he wouldn't sell me one. He said they are all junk. Prima Luna, Line Magnetic, Cayin, etc, etc, he said forget it. If you want a tube amplifier buy an American or European built unit that can be serviced.
So, I am new to valve amplifiers and I want to try one to understand what they're all about and sort of get my feet wet with tube rolling etc. I don't want to spend a lot of money at first which is why I was looking at Chinese built integrateds. So my question is, without getting into any particular brand other than what I have already mentioned, what is your experience with Chinese built tube amps? As a whole are they reliable? Am I wasting my money if I buy one according to this dealer? I have to admit I was rather taken aback by how adamant he was. Thoughts anyone?
That particular dealer certainly has a right to sell whatever he or she chooses, HOWEVER, to leave out of consideration all gear manufactured in Asia would be shortsighted. That would leave out PrimaLuna, (some) Quad, Kondo/Audio Note Japan, Shindo, Leben, Luxman, Allnic, Air Tight and the list goes on and on. He or she is either a bigot or an idiot or both. |
@runwell makes a good point. I wouldn't be as pessimistic as your dealer. Though they aren't built as well as an American brand, they do offer quite a bit for the dollar. I went through the same tube lust phase, and ended up with Atmasphere products. Ralph Karsten is a member here on Audiogon, and his products are about as good as you can get- Very reliable and don't require lots of fussing with tubes- though you are free to do so, if you wish. And, he is just a phone call away, should you need assistance. Bob |
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