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Tube Integrated Under 1,500

Looking for tube integrated for a second system. I have 1,500 tops to spend, and I will definitely buy used. Im thinking el34 but maybe an el84. I need at least 30 watts and something that’s fairly stout for tube. Maybe I could get by with 20 watts if I went el84 but not sure. Speakers are Totem Rainforest, which I believe are 86db, and the room is small, about 9x11x8.

I’m leaning pretty strongly towards grabbing a Primaluna. I have Primaluna seperates in my main system and am pretty happy with them. I’m trying to be open to other brands for this new amp but I’m struggling to find much that I feel confident about getting service for down the road. I’m hoping folks on here can lead me to some things I’ve missed maybe. I’m aware of Willsenton and Muzishare but not to confident if I need parts in 5-10 years they will be available. Line Magnetic I’d be open to if I could find the right amp in my price range. After those brands I’m not aware of much. There’s Icon but there amps seem to be about half the weight compared to some others. Just not sure there is good value there I guess. LSA has there new integrated but it also seems a bit cheap to me. Rogue seems to run there tubes pretty hard and I find the Chronus pretty hideous cosmetically. Jolida/ Black Ice seem alright I just can’t really get into the looks, and the used market seems weak if I ever sell.

Anyways, I’m not sure what else is really out there but hopefully you guys do. I thought it was worth asking before I grab another Primaluna.

brylandgoodman
big_greg
6,659 posts
 

A used Primaluna would be a good value.  Rogue makes good stuff.  I haven't owned any of their integrateds, but had their M180 monoblock amps for a long time.  They were rock solid.  If it was me, I'd probably try to find something from Line Magnetic if it fits the budget.  I really like the looks and sound of their gear. 

You might be able to find some older tube integrateds from Audio Research in your budget range.  I have a VSi55 (50 WPC).  I think I paid just a little more than that.  "Only" 50 watts, but I've driven Thiels, Harbeths, Stirlings, and other "hard to drive" speakers with it in an office system, not at concert volumes.

shtinkydog
691 posts
 

@brylandgoodman i would seriously consider LSA's new offering, as mentioned above, brand new with warranty.  I'm pretty sure you can return it if you don't like it.   Look up the reviews.  As an option, look at this: AMC CVT3030 Integrated Amplifier - Modified For Sale - US Audio Mart.  I've had their separates.  Excellent for the price. 

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,700 posts
 

I bought a Willsenton R8's for a second system and was very impressed with the build quality and sound. From what I have read they are built in the same factory that the Line magnetic and primaluna is. Under your budget too. there must be 20 youtube reviews on the R8. 

2psyop's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
2psyop
1,614 posts
 

IMHO I would try to save up or extend your budget. For used the recommendation for the ARC gear is solid, but new I would look at Line Magnetic or Willsenton. The Willsenton R800i looks very good at just about $3K, BTW some Chinese companies do make good audio gear.

shtinkydog
691 posts
 

Be careful with the Willsenton.  From far, it looks very impressive.  Up close, its a very different story.  You get what you pay for. 

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