1st full tube amp Oldchen EL34


Picked this up inexpensively to try on my Klipsch Quartets or Chorus 1s. Do not know much about vacuum tubes. I have recapped many ss amps but this is foreign to me. Seeking any and all advice on various nuances. 
 

I have a significant amount of silver coated copper wire encased in PTFE, was considering replacing the wiring. Have not opened it up yet so more to come based on what I find. Thanks for any feedback. 

ovinewar1

What scares me about Chi Fi tube amps is how safe are they ?     Want a great amp that goes great with Klipsch that won't break the bank? Quicksilver  Horn Mono or Mid Mono.  Either pair can be had for less than $1200 if you are patient.   Super reliable.   

I agree with the Quicksilver amp recommendation! The Horn Mono amps are great.

Mike

I have 2 hybrid amps (ss amp with tube pre) and really like them. This was my first attempt at a pure tube amp and didn’t want to spend a bunch. This presented itself for sub $200. Jasonbourne I understand that you generally get what you pay for and could possibly have far more experience with china manufacturing than 90% of  Americans, but this was perfect for my value proposition to tinker without toasting a $1000 plus amp. I also have my own concerns about safety which is why I plan to do some upgrades. I had a chance 2 years ago to buy quicksilver monos but hesitated and missed them. Really just looking for feedback on known weaknesses, possible safety issues, and simple mods to improve beyond its current state- not equal to a multi thousand dollar amp - just improve this limited amp. 

Oldchen brand-does that indicate it's run by old guys from the CCP, instead of young, rebellious anti Xi Jinping millennials?

Seriously, if you have access to a legit tech that knows tube amps to point out potential safety concerns, that's maybe to best move. They need a schematic to really know what's going on. I'd see if the company can provide one.

The transformers and quality of the parts, obviously are going to limit just how   much it can be tweaked to sound "better."

That could add up quick.$$