2. amps-preamps
  3. 181027-84411

Best value Set amp for under $1500 used is ok.

Looking to power some large horn speakers and replace my SS Audio Research upgraded LS10 power amp because it needs service and I am not ready to service this unit for a variety of reasons not worth discussing here.

Specs for the Viking Acoustics L’Instrument speakers

 

are:

Sensitivity: 98 db

Time Alignment: Drivers time-aligned mechanically and electrically.

Bandwidth: 18Hz - 19,000 (18Hz - 50kHz with optional super tweeter)

I have tried 845/805/KT88/120 in non set builds. I’d like to try a 300B or similar set  design for these without burning the budget. I’m based in Australia and prefer to use 240V capable amps.

128x128johnread57
knotscott
830 posts
 

Like Charles, I also read mainly quite positive reviews on the Willsenton amps for good value in an integrated, but don’t have personal experience with them. There’s a dedicated FB group for Willsenton. Rogue could also be worth a look.

If you have a preamp available, I'd highly recommend a VTA 70 from tubes4hifi.com. 

 

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,533 posts
 

Just to comment on the Willsenton amps being suggested, I had the R8 for a while and i was impressed with the overall build quality and sound. Only thing i didn't like was the remote volume control was too fast to be useful in a hi efficiency system. other than that, it's a supper $ value amp. 

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 

@glennewdick 

Your response is what I've seen from people who've actually heard or owned the Willsenton amplifiers. Vast majorities are impressed with their built quality and sound. Yes, it is Chinese, I would not be bias and hold that against it. There is a quality hierarchy with Chinese products as with any other nation.

Charles

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,402 posts
 

The LS10 is a preamplifier.

Are you looking for an integrated 300B amplifier?

If so, the Willsenton R300 (mentioned) is the only one, price wise, that comes to mind.

I have seen online pics of some models marked 220V/50Hz on the back.

Here's a recent thread about an owner (R300) updating the coupling caps in one (nice internal pics).

In the US I can have one delivered for $1500 with free shipping (Amazon), but I don't know about availability in Australia (I assume that I would be charged sales tax on the purchase).

 

DeKay

garyalex
116 posts
 

Willsenton R300.  I have it.  It's an excellent amp.

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